Cholera and Compassion

The Untold Story of Oladevi

von Swati Bisht

110 Seiten, Taschenbuch

Kurzbeschreibung des Verlags

Cholera and Compassion: The Untold Story of Oladevi is a profound exploration of faith, disease, and resilience. For centuries, Oladevi was venerated as the goddess of cholera in Bengal and beyond, embodying both the terror of the disease and the hope of healing. This book traces her origins in Hindu and Buddhist traditions, her role in folklore, and the rituals through which communities sought her protection.As cholera ravaged South Asia, particularly during British colonial rule, Oladevi's worship evolved, intertwining with indigenous healing practices and early medical interventions. While colonial authorities attempted to replace faith-based healing with Western medicine, folk traditions persisted, offering a spiritual refuge for the afflicted. The book delves into the conflict and coexistence between science and devotion, highlighting the role of priests, folk healers, and traditional medicine in epidemic control.With urbanization and modernization, Oladevi's prominence declined, yet her legacy endures in rural communities and cultural memory. In an era of global pandemics, her story remains strikingly relevant-offering lessons on the intersection of spirituality and public health.Drawing from historical records, folklore, and modern revival efforts, this book paints a vivid picture of a goddess who symbolized both fear and salvation. Cholera and Compassion is more than a historical account-it is a testament to humanity's enduring quest for protection, healing, and meaning in times of crisis. Whether through faith or science, the fight against disease has always been, at its core, a struggle for survival and hope.

• Reihe: Independently published
• ISBN: 9798312110562
• Sprache: Englisch
• Erscheinungsdatum: 25.02.2025
• Größe: 279 x 216 mm
• Verlag: Independently published