Published in 1948, Matrik Swasthyaraksha by Saroja Kanta Kanungo stands as a significant contribution to Odia literature, specifically in the realm of educational texts. This textbook, focused on maternal health and child care, reflects not only the social realities of its time but also the evolving perspectives on women’s health and the importance of proper maternal care. As one of the pioneering works in this field in Odisha, it has had a lasting impact on health education and awareness among the Odia-speaking populace.
The mid-20th century was a transformative era for India, marked by social reform and evolving health paradigms. In Odisha, as in other regions, the importance of maternal and child health began to gain recognition. Saroja Kanta Kanungo’s Matrik Swasthyaraksha entered the scene at a critical juncture, aiming to educate women and caregivers about health practices, nutrition, and child-rearing. By addressing these vital topics, the book not only aimed to improve maternal health outcomes but also sought to empower women with knowledge that they could pass down to future generations.
Matrik Swasthyaraksha covers a wide array of subjects pertinent to maternal and child health. Its chapters delve into topics such as prenatal care, childbirth practices, postnatal recovery, and infant health. Each section is carefully crafted to provide practical advice and insights, drawing on both traditional knowledge and modern medical practices. The emphasis on nutrition is particularly noteworthy, as Kanungo highlights the essential role that diet plays in ensuring the health of both mothers and their children.
The language used in the textbook is accessible, making it suitable for a diverse audience, including young mothers and students of health sciences. The inclusion of illustrations and diagrams further enhances the learning experience, allowing readers to easily grasp complex concepts. The book’s structure encourages active engagement; it poses questions and scenarios for readers to consider, effectively making it an interactive learning tool.
Matrik Swasthyaraksha is not just a textbook; it is a reflection of the cultural attitudes toward motherhood and caregiving in Odisha during the late 1940s. By emphasizing the importance of maternal health, Kanungo challenged prevailing norms that often marginalized women’s health issues. The book served as a catalyst for dialogue around women’s roles in society and highlighted the necessity for comprehensive maternal care.
The relevance of Matrik Swasthyaraksha extends beyond its immediate educational goals. The textbook has inspired subsequent generations of health educators and advocates, sparking discussions about women’s health and rights in Odisha. Its influence can be seen in the continued focus on maternal and child health programs within the state, as well as in the broader public health narrative.
Books Info
| Books name | Matrik Swasthyaraksha / ମାଟ୍ରିକ ସ୍ୱାସ୍ଥ୍ୟରକ୍ଷା |
| Author | Saroja Kanta Kanungo |
| No Of pages | 157 |
| Publisher | NA |
| Publication | 1948 |
| Printed At | NA |
| Distributor | NA |
