In India, a growing number of expectant parents are turning to astrology to determine the most auspicious dates and times for their children’s births. This practice, known as “mahurat deliveries,” involves scheduling cesarean sections (C-sections) to align with favorable astrological configurations, aiming to bestow health, prosperity, and success upon the newborn.

Cultural Significance of Astrology in Birth Timing

Astrology has long been intertwined with various aspects of Indian life, influencing decisions related to marriage, business ventures, and other significant events. The belief that celestial bodies at the time of birth can shape an individual’s destiny has led many parents to consult astrologers or priests to select optimal birth timings. These selected moments are believed to align the child’s life with positive cosmic energies, potentially ensuring a prosperous future.

Medical Community’s Perspective

The trend of scheduling births based on astrological considerations has raised concerns within the medical community. Doctors emphasize that unless medically necessary, altering the natural course of childbirth can pose risks to both mother and child.

Dr. Anita Nayar, practicing at Fortis La Femme in Delhi, recounted an instance where a patient requested an expedited induced labor to ensure her child would be born under the Aquarius sign, highlighting the lengths to which some parents are willing to go.

Similarly, Dr. Rooma Sinha of Apollo Hospital in Hyderabad noted that while accommodating elective C-sections for practical reasons is common, performing surgeries solely based on astrological preferences without medical justification is not advisable. She emphasized the importance of prioritizing medical indications over cultural or personal beliefs.

Case Study: The Ram Temple Inauguration

A notable example of this phenomenon occurred on January 22, 2024, during the inauguration of the Ram Temple in Ayodhya by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Many parents aimed to have their children born on this auspicious day, believing it would imbue their offspring with the revered qualities of the Hindu deity Ram. This led to a significant increase in scheduled C-sections, with some hospitals planning 30 to 40 procedures on that day alone.

Balancing Tradition and Medical Ethics

While the desire to choose favorable birth timings is rooted in deep-seated cultural beliefs, medical professionals caution against elective procedures without medical necessity. The potential health risks associated with unnecessary C-sections include infections, increased recovery times, and complications in future pregnancies. Healthcare providers advocate for educating parents about these risks and encourage decisions that prioritize the well-being of both mother and child.

Conclusion

The practice of scheduling births based on astrological beliefs underscores the complex interplay between cultural traditions and modern medical practices in India. While respecting cultural sentiments is essential, ensuring the health and safety of both mother and child remains paramount. Ongoing dialogue between parents, astrologers, and medical professionals is crucial to navigate these decisions responsibly.

Sources:

1. The Times UK – “The Indian Mothers Paying for C-Sections Under Lucky Stars”
2. Times of India – “From Birth Charts to Bhakti: The Influence of Astrology on Devotion in Indian Religion”
3. Times of India – “Astrological Doshas During Childbirth and Their Remedies”