Sulagitti Narasamma

Sulagitti Narasamma

Sulagitti Narasamma (1920 – 25 December 2018) was a renowned Indian midwife from Karnataka, widely celebrated for her contributions to traditional midwifery and healthcare in rural areas. Over her lifetime, Narasamma assisted in the delivery of more than 15,000 babies without any formal medical education, relying instead on ancestral knowledge and natural remedies. Her work, primarily in the remote villages of Pavagada Taluk in Tumkur district, not only provided essential healthcare services but also empowered women through education and support during childbirth.

Early Life

Born into a poor family in Krishnapura, a small village in Karnataka, Narasamma grew up in a society where access to healthcare was limited. From a young age, she was apprenticed to her grandmother, a traditional midwife, from whom she learned the skills of midwifery. This apprenticeship marked the beginning of a lifelong commitment to serving the women in her community.

Career and Contributions

Narasamma's work as a midwife began in earnest when she was just 20 years old. Her approach combined traditional birthing practices with a deep understanding of women's health, making her services invaluable in areas where medical facilities were scarce or non-existent. She became a beacon of hope for pregnant women in her region, often walking miles to assist in deliveries at any time of the day or night.

Her methods, though traditional, were remarkably effective in ensuring the health and safety of both mother and child. Narasamma also played a crucial role in educating women about prenatal and postnatal care, nutrition, and hygiene, significantly improving maternal and infant health outcomes in her community.

Recognition

In recognition of her invaluable service and contribution to society, Sulagitti Narasamma was awarded the Padma Shri, one of India's highest civilian honors, in 2018. This award highlighted not only her individual achievements but also the importance of traditional healthcare practices in rural India.

Legacy

Sulagitti Narasamma's legacy is a testament to the power of traditional knowledge and the impact of individual dedication on community health. Her life's work underscores the critical role of midwives in maternal and child health, especially in regions lacking access to formal healthcare facilities. Narasamma's story continues to inspire healthcare workers and activists around the world, advocating for the integration of traditional practices with modern medicine to improve healthcare outcomes in underserved areas.

Death

Sulagitti Narasamma passed away on 25 December 2018, leaving behind a legacy that continues to inspire and impact the field of midwifery and rural healthcare in India.