Zoho CEO Sridhar Vembu backs IIT Madras director over cow urine benefits, says 'modern science is...'

Zoho CEO Sridhar Vembu has come out in support of IIT Madras director Prof V Kamakoti, who recently faced criticism for his comments regarding the medicinal properties of cow urine or 'Gomutra'. Vembu took to social media platform X (formerly Twitter) to defend Prof Kamakoti, highlighting the professor’s significant contributions to science and education while dismissing the backlash as unwarranted.

The controversy erupted after Prof Kamakoti made remarks in a viral video, which sparked a debate on the validity of traditional practices in the light of scientific research. In his posts, Vembu emphasized that Prof Kamakoti is a distinguished researcher and educator, pointing out that the professor referenced scientific studies supporting the benefits of cow urine. Vembu argued that modern science is increasingly recognizing the value of traditional wisdom, and the negative online responses were rooted in prejudice rather than scientific reasoning. He encouraged Prof Kamakoti to remain resilient against the online criticism.



Vembu further expanded on his support by addressing the growing scientific interest in topics related to traditional practices. He compared cow urine and cow dung to the emerging scientific study of fecal transplants and fecal pills, which have been gaining attention for their potential health benefits, particularly in restoring beneficial gut bacteria. Vembu asserted that the idea of cow urine having beneficial properties is not baseless or superstitious but aligns with current scientific research on gut health, which is essential for both physical and mental well-being. He critiqued those mocking these traditional practices as close-minded individuals participating in online mobs.