Abstract

The significance of Indian Knowledge Systems under the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 has encouraged scholars to re-examine classical Indian texts as structured bodies of empirical and philosophical knowledge. Within this context, Vedic and Ayurvedic literature offers valuable insights into early understandings of health, disease, and living entities that are not directly observed through unaided eyes. The concept of krimi, frequently mentioned in these texts, refers to organisms associated with spoilage, illness, and bodily changes. Although as expressed in a pre-modern intellectual framework, these descriptions appear to arise from sustained observation of disease patterns, environmental influences, and physiological responses rather than single thought alone. This article examines selected interpretations along with primary Vedic and Ayurvedic sources to explore how krimi were understood in terms of their origin, classification, and role in the diseases occurred. The analysis highlights the connection between traditional textual concept of krimi with factors such as improper diet, lack of personal cleanliness and hygiene, environmental conditions, and disturbances within the body. Focus is centred on prevention and therapeutic measures recommended in these sources, including dietary regulation, daily routine, hygienic practices, and the use of herbal preparations, reflecting a complete preventive orientation toward health. Instead of directly comparing these ideas with modern microbiology, the study looks at them within their own traditional ways of thinking, letting the original knowledge system explain itself. By doing so, emphasis is laid on the internal logic of the Indian Knowledge System in addressing questions of health and disease. In association with NEP 2020, this study supports ongoing academic efforts to bring classical Indian knowledge traditions into modern interdisciplinary research and higher education.