A recent statement by IIT-Madras Director V Kamakoti about the alleged medicinal properties of cow urine has stirred a nationwide controversy. In a viral video, Kamakoti claimed cow urine has “anti-bacterial, anti-fungal” properties and can even help reduce fever, citing an anecdote of an ascetic who allegedly felt relief after consuming it.
His remarks, originally made during a Maatu Pongal event on January 15, have resurfaced online, drawing criticism from various quarters, including Hotmail co-founder Sabeer Bhatia, scientists, political leaders, and netizens. The incident has reignited the long-standing debate over the boundaries between tradition and scientific reasoning in India.
What Did the IIT-Madras Director Say?
In the viral video, V Kamakoti, Director of the prestigious Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Madras, narrated a story during a ‘Go Samrakshana Sala’ event in Chennai. He spoke of an ascetic who cured his fever by drinking cow urine. Kamakoti said:
“In 15 minutes, his fever subsided. It has scientific backing. Cow urine has antibacterial, anti-fungal, and digestive benefits.”
He also highlighted the importance of organic farming and indigenous cow breeds for India’s rural economy.
Sabeer Bhatia’s Sharp Reaction
Reacting to the video, Sabeer Bhatia posted on X (formerly Twitter):
“Shocked by IIT Madras Director’s viral video claiming cow urine is ‘anti-bacterial, anti-fungal’ with digestive benefits. If educated leaders spout this, how can we trust their decisions for elite institutions?”
He later added sarcastically:
“After my tweet went viral, I thought it was an isolated case. But wait — now I see a cop sipping straight from the source, actors endorsing it, and a guru swearing by it. Seriously… did I miss the national memo? Is this the new elixir of India?”
His remarks opened the floodgates for public commentary on the credibility of academic leadership, traditional beliefs, and the influence of religious-cultural practices on modern science.
Public and Expert Reactions
The issue soon escalated into a national conversation, with reactions pouring in from all sides:
Criticism from Netizens:
- “Andh bhakti knows no borders. It thrives across regions, classes, and age groups.”
- “Educated but trapped in superstition.”
Concern from Academics:
Many scholars and scientists expressed concern that such statements from an IIT Director, without proper peer-reviewed scientific evidence, could damage India’s scientific reputation.
Political Leaders:
Opposition leaders slammed the remarks, saying that academic institutions must be protected from pseudoscience and religious propaganda.
What Does Science Say About Cow Urine?
The idea that cow urine (Gomutra) has medicinal properties is not new in India. It’s often used in Ayurveda and traditional treatments. However, mainstream modern medical science remains skeptical.
Some Studies (Mostly Unverified or Limited):
- A few Indian studies have suggested antimicrobial effects of cow urine in laboratory settings.
- In 2002, the Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR) patented a cow urine distillate that allegedly increases the effectiveness of antibiotics.
But…
- These studies lack large-scale clinical trials.
- There’s no global medical consensus endorsing cow urine for treating infections or fever.
- No major peer-reviewed international journals have published robust research confirming these claims.
Therefore, scientists argue that while ethnopharmacology can be explored, scientific validation through clinical trials is non-negotiable before any public health recommendation.
The Larger Issue: Tradition vs Science
India’s deep-rooted traditions often include natural remedies, many of which form the basis of Ayurveda. However, concerns arise when anecdotal practices are presented as scientific truths by figures in power.
The Risks:
- Erosion of scientific credibility.
- Misguidance to students and public.
- Encouragement of superstitions under the garb of cultural revival.
According to educationists, leaders of premier institutions like IITs must balance cultural sensitivity with a firm commitment to scientific rigor.