Superstitious Rituals Can Kill

As Rekha’s in-laws were among the rich and famous people in the town, they decided to perform this ritual on a very big scale to show off their wealth and status. All arrangements for the function were done and the entire village was invited. 2 days before the function, Rekha had severe pain in her abdomen and she was immediately taken to the hospital in the nearby town.  The doctor examined her and advised that they admit her to the hospital immediately and that she’ll be put under observation. She may have to be operated upon within 2 days for a C-section delivery. Instead of admitting her to the hospital, her in-laws insisted that the “God Bharai ki Rasm” be completed first. They did not inform the doctor about the ritual. Instead, they told her that they’ll be back tomorrow as they have some prayer to be done. Doctor agreed on the pretext that Rekha will not exert herself.

On the day of the ritual, Rekha was made to sit on the ground with crossed legs (a very uncomfortable position for an 8 months pregnant woman). Women came in hordes to participate in the ritual and she was made to sit like that preparing pancakes for more than 4 hours. After this, she had to take blessings from all the elders by touching their feet (another difficult thing to do for a pregnant woman). The function was a huge success and everyone was very pleased with the arrangements and proceedings.

The next day, Rekha was taken to the hospital for admission. The doctor found something wrong (no movement of the baby) on examination and decided to perform a C-section immediately. Rekha had given birth to a stillborn. The baby did not survive the exertion subjected to in the name of an auspicious ritual.

The ritual, which was to ensure the well being of the mother and child, snuffed out the life of the unborn child…

*Names and places changed to maintain anonymity.