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IIT Madras Director V Kamakoti’s praise for gaumutra’s medicinal value has sparked controversy after he shared an anecdote about its healing effects.
IIT Madras director praises cow urine’s medicinal value, faces criticism. (Image: News18)
A video of IIT Madras Director V Kamakoti praising the ‘medicinal value’ of ‘gaumutra’ (cow urine) has gone viral on social media. Speaking at a Go Samrakshana Sala event on Maatu Pongal (January 15, 2025), Kamakoti shared an anecdote about a sanyasi who reportedly cured a high fever by consuming gaumutra.
“A prominent sanyasi developed a fever, and the idea of calling a doctor was suggested to him… I have forgotten the name of that sanyasi. He immediately said he would drink gaumutra. Gaumutra was promptly brought, and he consumed it with ease. The fever appeared to vanish within 15 minutes. For antibacterial, antifungal, digestive issues, and irritable bowel syndrome—among many other conditions—gaumutra is a very important medicine,” Kamakoti said.
Kamakoti also spoke about the importance of organic farming and protecting indigenous cow breeds, highlighting their role in agriculture and the economy. He emphasised the environmental and economic benefits of ‘Go samrakshana’ (cow protection) and advocated for a switch to organic farming to preserve ‘Bhoomi Mata’ (Mother Earth).
Controversy Over IIT-Madras Chief ‘Gaumutra’ Remark
Kamakoti’s remarks have sparked controversy. The rationalist group Dravidar Kazhagam criticised his statement, calling it “shameful” and against the truth. DMK leader TKS Elangovan accused the central government of trying to “spoil” education, while K Ramakrishnan of Thanthai Periyar Dravidar Kazhagam demanded evidence for Kamakoti’s claims or an apology, warning of protests otherwise.
Congress leader Karti P Chidambaram called Kamakoti’s remarks “pseudoscience” and said they were unbecoming of an IIT director.
DK leader Kali Poongundran referred to a study indicating harmful bacteria in cow urine, warning against its consumption. Dr. GR Ravindranath of the Doctors Association for Social Equality also warned of bacterial infections from consuming gaumutra, criticising the BJP for promoting pseudoscience.
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BJP Tamil Nadu Chief Defends Kamakoti
BJP Tamil Nadu president K Annamalai defended Kamakoti, stating that his remarks were personal and not part of any classroom lecture.
People close to Kamakoti said his speech focused on promoting organic farming and protecting local cattle breeds. They explained that his main message was about the importance of sustainable farming practices, supported by scientific studies that looked into the beneficial properties of cow urine.
Kamakoti, who has been the director of IIT-Madras since January 2022, was speaking in the context of threats to indigenous cow breeds and the benefits of organic farming. He also mentioned IIT-M’s initiatives like ‘Goshala automation’ and biogas production as part of their Regenerative Agriculture Stack Architecture program.
(With inputs from PTI)
