Shankar Rama Shinde - Session 01

AR-029-3-1

(00:00:00) He provides an overview of how he became a Vaidu, detailing his formal training with BAIF and his long-standing involvement in forest and vulture conservation initiatives. (00:03:18) He explains the range of diseases he treats and describes the role of therapeutic massage as an integral part of his healing practice. (00:05:00) He discusses his diagnostic approach, outlining how he identifies symptoms related to conditions such as snakebite, diabetes, menstrual disorders, malnutrition, and jaundice. (00:13:02) He elaborates on his specialization in treating paralysis, describing the medicinal herbs used and the methods followed for determining and administering dosage. (00:16:32) He explains how he learned the names of medicinal plants and methods of preparation from his grandfather, alongside the structured training he received through BAIF. (00:23:05) He reflects on the dietary discipline and personal experiences that shaped his practice while training to become a Vaidu. (00:24:24) He describes the locations in Nashik from where he sources medicinal herbs, explains how they are processed into medicines, and shares his concerns regarding the cultivation and conservation of these plants. (00:35:35) He explains his methods for storing medicinal herbs and preparing them in the form of powders, decoctions, and massage oils. (00:45:13) He notes that many patients continue to seek his treatment despite improvements in local healthcare facilities. (00:45:43) He explains how he is training youth within his community to prepare medicines and discusses how the nomenclature of medicinal plants has evolved over time. (00:48:40) He shares his knowledge of preparing medicines for livestock and the treatments he provides to animals. (00:51:42) He explains, in the local language, the diseases affecting livestock and the medicines used to treat them. (00:55:15) He describes the symptoms he observes in livestock to diagnose different diseases. (00:56:45) He recounts his experiences in animal care, including assisting in the delivery of a dead calf and other related cases. (01:00:08) He describes his role in forest and vulture conservation, highlighting his collaboration with the Forest Department. (01:02:00) He explains vulture behavior, particularly their feeding habits. (01:04:00) He discusses the cultivation of medicinal plants around his home as part of conservation and accessibility efforts.

04-07-2025

Oral History Interviews of Vaidu