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Author : Achal Pulastey
मानव सभ्यता में सुरा: परम्परा, विज्ञान और संयम
यह लेख मानव सभ्यता में सुरा (मदिरा) की प्राचीनता, सांस्कृतिक महत्व तथा उसके गुण-दोषों का समग्र विश्लेषण प्रस्तुत करता है। प्राचीन भारतीय ग्रंथों में सुरा को सोम, वारुणी आदि नामों से उल्लेखित किया गया है, जिससे इसकी ऐतिहासिक और धार्मिक महत्ता स्पष्ट होती है। आयुर्वेद के आचार्यों ने मदिरा को उचित विधि से सेवन करने पर औषधि तथा अविधि से सेवन करने पर विष के समान बताया है। लेख में यह भी बताया गया है कि संयमित एवं युक्तिपूर्ण मद्यपान शरीर के कुछ विकारों में लाभकारी हो सकता है, जबकि अत्यधिक या गलत तरीके से सेवन करने पर यह यकृत, गुर्दे एवं अन्य अंगों को हानि पहुँचाता है। आधुनिक विज्ञान भी सीमित मात्रा में सेवन के कुछ सकारात्मक प्रभावों को स्वीकार करता है, परंतु इसके दुष्परिणामों से सावधान रहने की आवश्यकता है। अंततः लेख यह संदेश देता है कि मदिरा का पूर्ण विरोध करने के बजाय उसके प्रति जागरूकता और संतुलित दृष्टिकोण अपनाना आवश्यक है, जिससे समाज को उसके नकारात्मक प्रभावों से बचाया जा सके। साथ ही, जो लोग मदिरापान नहीं करते, उनके लिए इससे दूर रहना ही सर्वोत्तम है।
Alcohol is one of the earliest discoveries of human civilization. Like every substance, it possesses both merits and demerits. Regarding its antiquity, it is said that the first chemical substance prepared by the Greeks was alcohol itself. In ancient Indian texts, it is mentioned by various names such as Soma, Sura, Varuni, Maireya, Gaudiya, Madhvika, and Madya, which establishes its deep roots in Indian tradition.
A hymn in the Rigveda describes Sura as that which embodies the brilliance of the Ashwini Kumaras, the intellectual power of Saraswati, the valor of Indra, and the incomparable influence of Vishnu. It is considered the supreme weapon of Kamadeva and the essence of the strength of Balabhadra. It is offered into the sacred fire during the Sautramani sacrifice and is believed to have emerged, along with Lakshmi, the moon, and nectar, from the ocean churned by gods and demons, enriched with all medicinal properties. In various forms like Asava and Arishta, it has been traditionally consumed in the country, and such Sura is worthy of reverence.
In Ayurveda, sages like Atreya have referred to Sura as Amrita, Swadha, and Soma. The text Bhavaprakasha describes fresh alcohol as heavy, inflammatory, harmful to the heart, and aggravating all three doshas, whereas aged alcohol is said to be appetizing, beneficial for the heart, and capable of alleviating doshas and eliminating worms, phlegm, and toxins.
According to Maharshi Vagbhata, alcohol consumed in a proper manner enhances vitality, strength, intellect, and longevity, whereas improper consumption leads to their decline. Acharya Charaka and Sushruta have stated that all substances in the world can be medicine when used properly, but become poison when used improperly. This principle applies equally to alcohol.
The ancient scholars also described the proper method of alcohol consumption. It should be taken in the evening after bathing and meditation, in a calm and cool environment, while seated comfortably and wearing clean and fragrant clothes. It should be consumed slowly, mixed with six parts of cold water, and accompanied by well-cooked meat or dry fruits. It should be offered first to deities, teachers, and ancestors before drinking according to one’s capacity. When consumed in this disciplined way, it is believed to contribute to the four aims of life (Dharma, Artha, Kama, Moksha).
The practice of offering a few drops before drinking is meant to maintain restraint and awareness. Even today, many drinkers follow this symbolic act.
Modern studies also highlight some positive aspects of moderate alcohol consumption. According to the National Institute on Alcoholism in the United States, up to three to six standard drinks per week for men and two to four for women may be considered acceptable. A standard drink is defined as approximately 360 ml of beer, 60 ml of vodka, or 45 ml of whisky or rum. Such moderate consumption may reduce the risk of certain nervous and respiratory disorders and may help with insomnia, stress, and urinary issues.
Alcohol made from grapes contains antioxidants, vitamin B, potassium, magnesium, sugars, calcium, phosphorus, and iron. These can stimulate digestive juices, help with loss of appetite and indigestion, and provide energy. In Western countries, mild alcoholic beverages are sometimes used for weight management and to stimulate the nervous system during winter.
However, improper consumption always yields harmful effects. Alcohol can be dangerous for those taking painkillers, heart medications, or diuretics. Long-term excessive consumption damages the liver, kidneys, and spleen and leads to deficiencies of vitamins A, D, E, K, B, and C.
Heavy drinking at night often results in morning symptoms like lethargy, heaviness, and anxiety, commonly known as a hangover. There is a misconception that consuming another drink, aspirin, or multivitamins helps relieve hangovers, but this can be harmful. Instead, consuming sour drinks like lemon water or yogurt-based beverages and taking a cold bath can provide relief.
Ultimately, alcohol consumption is a human behavior that tends to grow even in the face of opposition. Its attraction lies in its effect on the brain, where it relaxes the thinking center, temporarily relieving stress, fear, and feelings of inferiority, thus creating a sense of pleasure.
Therefore, in today’s competitive and unequal environment, instead of outright opposition or hatred toward alcohol, there is a need for awareness and understanding to prevent its harmful effects. Those habituated to drinking should be guided toward positive activities such as yoga. Direct opposition or social stigma often leads to increased illegal consumption and criminal behavior. Finally, for those who do not consume alcohol, it is best to abstain.
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