Diabetes @ the Kumbh Mela

Abstract

Spirituality is a globally acknowledged concept. It involves belief and obedience to an all powerful force or “God,” who controls the universe and the destiny of man. It involves the ways in which people fulfill what they hold to be the purpose of their lives, a search for the meaning of life and a sense of connectivity to the universe. Can this be better utilized for appreciation of and better management of chronic illnesses? Mahakumbh is a holy Hindu festival, which brings together up to 50 million devotees, every 12 years. The 2-month-long ritual of prayer and fasting occurs at the confluence of the Ganga, Yamuna, and Saraswati rivers, at Allahabad in Northern India. This mammoth festival exposes vulnerability to the diabetic devotees who visit it, while providing opportunity to manage the condition as well. This article discusses both vulnerability and opportunity related to diabetes at the Kumbh Mela.

Diabetes - Kumbh - spirituality

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