Kriya Kala in Ayurveda: A Comprehensive Exploration of Disease Pathogenesis and Clinical Significance

Kriya Kala is a fundamental concept in Ayurveda that describes the sequential stages of disease development. It provides a systematic understanding of how dosha imbalance progresses from subtle physiological disturbance to fully manifested pathology and ultimately to complications. This staged approach offers a unique advantage for early diagnosis, prevention, and stage-wise therapeutic intervention. The present article elaborates the concept of Shat Kriya Kala (six stages of disease), its pathological basis, clinical features, and its significance in diagnosis, prognosis, and management.