Browsing by Author "Singh, N."

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Antenatal uterine rupture in a pregnancy following microwave endometrial ablation
(Informa Healthcare, 2011) Herath, R.P.; Singh, N.; Oligbo, N.
No abstract available
Godna Tradition of Awadh-From Mythology to Modernity
(University of Kelaniya, 2015) Singh, N.
Godna (body tattooing) is believed to be the adaptation of a primitive form of art in India. The art of Godna is closely related to religion and is considered to be a rite de passage in Non-Dwij castes of Awadhi region. This art comprises permanent ornamentation of the body with tattoos made by Godarins or Maharins. The beliefs say that these are the only ornamentations which remain with them after their death and tattooed god, symbol or name is remain with them as supernatural aid in the time of crisis even after their death. This is popular among women though some of the men in Awadh also have this art on their bodies. This art may provide an insight into a peoples world view. According to the myth and history, Godna is an age old tradition. Female figurines found in Bharahut dated 200 BCE had Godna in their hand, leg and face. The record of human history shows that Godna have served in various functions as a rite of passage, mark of status and rank, symbols of religious and spiritual devotion, decorations for bravery etc. In modern times body tattooing has become a symbol of fashion and religious significance is losing its meaning. This paper would analyse the history of Godna in India, its process, technique, motifs, symbolism, division of labour, incentives of Godarin, palliation and relationship with modern fashion tattoos.
How can we reduce negative laparoscopies for pelvic pain?
(Informa Healthcare, 2011) Singh, N.; Rashid, M.; Herath, R.P.
Chronic pelvic pain is a common condition and the RCOG guideline provides an evidence-based framework for the initial assessment. This study investigated the adequacy and relevance of the initial assessment in patients who underwent elective laparoscopic procedure for pelvic pain. History-taking was found to be deficient and was unable to identify factors which may be related to the cause or perception of the pain. Only a small percentage benefitted from a therapeutic trial of hormonal and non-hormonal agents and referral to other specialities. Ultrasound and bimanual examination were both found to be of little value. Laparoscopy assisted in diagnosis in 45% of patients. A structured initial assessment and targeted selection of patients for laparoscopy would reduce the number of patients with normal findings and thus, it would reduce the number of women who suffer pain and isolation after a negative laparoscopy.
Oral Tradition and Performative World of Ramlila in Odisha
(Centre for Asian Studies, University of Kelaniya, 2015) Singh, N.
Ramlila is an age old oral tradition of India. It is a dramatic representation of deeds of lord Rama in the form of plays and procession. The United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) proclaimed that the tradition of Ramlila is a masterpiece of oral and intangible cultural heritage of humanity in 2005. In Ramlila, the basic essence of the story remains the same, but the manner in which it is being performed may vary from place to place. Each style has its own idiosyncratic features developed over a period of time by the impact of various factors like, migration, local culture, religious belief, geographical conditions, flora-fauna, etc. During Shardiya Navaratri (September- October) the streets of north Indian cities transformed into a dramatic stage. But in Odisha, Ramlila is being played in the month of Chaitra (March- April). Present paper would give an ethnographic account of Ramlila in Odisha. Boudh, Puri and Daspalla Ramlilas would be discussed in the present paper. These are the representative Ramlila style of Odisha. It is observed with religious fervour and; with great pomp and show for eight to thirty days at different temples – streets. It is called Sri Kshetra yatra or Sahi Jatra in Puri, Mahavir Khetra in Daspalla and Ramlila Naatya in Boudh. One can feel religiosity and the experience of the divine in the performative world of Ramlila tradition. Every Ramlila style differs from one another in execution, staging, costume, make-up, acting style and to see community participation would be important in the multicultural society of Odisha. Although there are some broad similarities in all styles of Ramlila being played in Odisha.
Religious Rituals: An Empowering Mechanism for Risk Reduction (A Study with Special Reference to Pulin Utsav)
(University of Kelaniya, 2015) Singh, N.
The rituals are patterned, repetitive behaviour focused on the super-natural realm and the enactment of belief expressed in myth and doctrine. Regularly performed rituals are called periodic rituals. Non-periodic rituals, in contrast, occur irregularly, at unpredictable times, in response to unscheduled events. This article reveals the role of religious rituals in coping with the sudden events like, flood. In the spirituality of many indigenous traditions, humanity is inextricably linked to nature. Heavy rains and river behaviour are communicated and discussed, dispensing with the need for high-tech warning systems. A worldview that sees water primarily as a source of life, rather than danger, affects the way villagers prepare themselves to mitigate with floods. Therefore, there are some non-periodic rituals which are traditionally performed at the time of flood. One of the best examples is Pulin Utsav, which is celebrated only when the Yamuna water enters in Gyan Gudri, the village of Vrindavan (Uttar Pradesh, India) on the river bank, a phenomenon seen once in several years. Thus, the study shows that religion is a key force behind the way a community or society interacts and cope up with environmental hazard.