The AFMC Crest

“Within a lotus wreath, surmounted by the Ashokan lions, the rod ofAesculapaeus the serpent intertwined”

The snake has been symbolically associated with the medical profession, since the dawn of civilization. Its origin can be traced in the mythology of the Greek who regarded it as a symbol of wisdom, virility and eternity. The snake was carried by Apollo and Mercury around a rod. In the form depicted in the crest, intertwined around a staff, it was carried by Aesculapaeus, the greek god of health and healing.

The same symbol is also found in Indian mythology. The staff is here called the “Brahmadanda”, the stick of Lord Brahma. The two snakes symbolize “Kundalini”, the fire of eternity. It was natural for the eternal symbol of the science of healing to occupy its place in the crest of Armed Forces Medical College

The Patron of AFMC - Dhanvantari

TO symbolize our search for perfection in the arts of medicine and our desire for universal healing, a patron was selected. The celestial healer, “Dhanvantari” was adopted as the patron of this college and it is to him that the college is dedicated. His creation is detailed in the ancient myth Samudramanthan , which tells of the churning of the cosmic ocean from which first arose “Surabhi”, the marvelous cow, mother and nurse of all living things. Then came “Varini” – the goddess of wine, “Parijata” the tree of paradise and the “Apsaras” with their enchanting grace and beauty. Next appeared the moon which “Shiva” grasped, followed by the emergence of “Lakshmi” the goddess of fortune. Last to appear was “Dhanvantari” the celestial healer, creator of the ayurvedic philosophy, holding in his hand the cup which contained the potion of immortality.