Summary: standard works and were held sacred in Hindu medicine. Any violation of their opinions was considered sacrilege, leading to a stereotyped knowledge that deteriorated over time. Despite being well-paid and honored, the votaries failed to improve the science, with only Caraka and Susruta being original authors. The later authorities merely copied them, perpetuating errors. The system of medicine declined during the Buddhist era and was entirely lost during the Muslim rule. Charitable institutions like hospitals and dispensaries were common in ancient India, and the Hindu system of medicine, still practiced, can be studied firsthand. The Hindus favored external applications for surgical treatments, neglecting surgical operations and hindering the advancement of medicine and surgery. The reverence for ancient texts and lack of innovation have led to stagnation in the field of Hindu medicine.