IIT Madras Director Lauds Gaumutra for Medicinal Value

Chennai: A video of IIT-Madras director V Kamakoti extolling the medicinal benefits of cow urine (Gaumutra) has gone viral, drawing criticism for promoting pseudoscience. Speaking at an event organised at a cow shelter on the Tamil festival Maatu Pongal (January 15), Kamakoti said cow urine has antibacterial, antifungal and digestive properties and could be a remedy for conditions such as irritable bowel syndrome.

In the video, Kamakoti also narrated an anecdote about a sanyasi who he said was cured of high fever 15 minutes after consuming cow urine (Gaumutra). The IIT-Madras director linked his comments to the wider importance of organic farming and emphasised the role of indigenous cattle in agriculture and the economy. He also spoke about the need to turn to organic farming at the event.

Kamakoti’s comments on cow urine were strongly criticised by various political and social groups. Rationalist organisation Dravidar Kazhagam accused Kamakoti of promoting unscientific beliefs. “The medicinal value of cow urine has no scientific basis. It is the liquid waste of an animal. His comments show that the IIT-Madras director lacks scientific temper,” said K Poongundran, vice-president of Dravidar Kazhagam.

Also Read: ISRO Sends Satellites Into Space, India Takes First Step Towards Entering the Club of Elite Nations