Unity in Diversity in the Celebration of Cattle‐Curing Rites in a North Indian Village: A Study in the Resolution of Conflict1

In: American anthropologist: AA, Band 68, Heft 3, S. 673-692

Abstract

An epidemic of cattle disease led to a dispute between orthodox and reform Hindus over the holding of Akhta, a traditional cattle‐curing rite that involved a number of features in conflict with the reform teachings of Arya Samaj. The dispute was rather easily resolved, and the ceremony was held. We suggest that this happened principally because of the existence of a few cultural themes of great antiquity held in common by all villagers. In addition, parts of Akhta have been eliminated, modified, or reinterpreted to reconcile them with Arya Samaj teachings. These modifications probably took place over a period of years, beginning with the introduction of Arya Samaj into the village. Hence the resolution of the dispute here reported is part of a long process of culture change.