Indore, September, 2025 – Heart disease is a major and rising health concern in Madhya Pradesh, with prevalence and incident cases increasing significantly over recent years, especially among adults and even younger populations. Cardiac emergencies in the state have surged up to five times since summer 2024, with an estimated 15,000 or more cases attended by emergency services over a seven-month period, and ischemic heart disease continues to be the leading cause of death and disability among non-communicable diseases in the region.
A state-representative survey has shown that 22.3% of adults in Madhya Pradesh have hypertension, 15.3% are overweight or obese, and 6.8% have diabetes mellitus, each of which are major risk factors for heart disease. National data indicates that about 11% of India’s adult population lives with cardiovascular disease, with Madhya Pradesh reporting among the highest burdens of ischemic heart disease, according to ICMR reports. Experts also warn that 15 of the country’s 100 districts with the highest hypertension prevalence are located in Madhya Pradesh.
Indore, celebrated as the food capital of India, is at the center of this challenge. The city’s culinary culture, from poha-jalebi breakfasts to ghee-rich snacks at Sarafa and Chhappan Dukan, has been a source of pride and joy. However, what delights the taste buds is also straining the arteries of residents.
“Indore is a city that lives through its food. From jalebi fried in desi ghee to festive thalis, we take pride in our culinary traditions. But what delights the tongue can damage the heart,” said Dr. Rakesh Jain, DM Cardiology, Geeta Bhawan Square, Indore. “Today, I see patients as young as 30 coming in with cholesterol blockages and hypertension. This is not only because of food, but because food has stopped being balanced with movement. Our grandparents also ate ghee and sweets, but they walked more, worked more physically, and lived slower lives. Modern Indore eats the same, but spends the day sitting—this is a deadly combination. Yoga and exercise are not lifestyle luxuries anymore; they are survival essentials.”
Dr. Jain explained that even thirty to forty minutes of daily physical activity, such as brisk walking, cycling, or yoga, can cut cardiovascular risks significantly. Yoga practices like pranayama, Tadasana, Bhujangasana, and Shavasana help reduce stress hormones, improve lung capacity, and regulate blood pressure. “Exercise is the only medicine you can prescribe yourself daily without side effects. It allows you to enjoy Indore’s food culture without destroying your heart. The message is clear: just as you don’t skip your meals, don’t skip your movement.”
On World Heart Day, Dr. Jain urged Indore residents to preserve both their culture and their health. “Food is joy, but health is life. We cannot let Indore’s reputation as India’s food city become the reason for a heart disease epidemic. Let us walk in Rajwada, cycle at Pipliyapala, or join yoga groups in our neighborhoods. A strong heart will ensure Indore continues to celebrate food, not mourn early deaths.”
World Heart Day 2025: Indore’s Food Culture Needs a Balance With Exercise and Yoga, Warns Cardiologist
