Book Review 117: Medical Maladies: Stories of Diseases and Cure from Indian Languages, edited and introduced by Haris Qadeer
Medical Maladies is an exceptional anthology that delves into the spectrum of medical experiences and practices in India. The collection features nineteen captivating short stories translated from various Indian languages. This compilation, which includes renowned authors like Rabindranath Tagore, Bibhutibhusan Bandopadhyay, Premchand, and Saadat Hasan Manto, as well as medical practitioners such as Rashid Jahan and Shirin Shrikant Valavade, offers readers a thought-provoking and immersive exploration of the intersection between literature and medicine. A notable aspect of this collection is its inclusion of stories that delve into women's mental and physical health, including pregnancy, childbirth, abortion, and depression. By exploring these topics, the anthology offers valuable insights into the unique challenges faced by women within the Indian healthcare system, thereby adding a layer of depth and relevance to the overall narrative. Through their narratives, the authors enc