Knowledge, Power, And Practice: Traditional Healers In Karnataka’s Health System

Abstract

In rural Karnataka, traditional healers continue to play a vital role in community health, even as modern medical facilities expand. This study explores the knowledge, practices, and social legitimacy of traditional healers in Belagavi district, examining how cultural beliefs, accessibility, and trust influence health-seeking behaviour. Using a mixed-method approach, data were collected from 50 households through structured questionnaires, along with in-depth interviews with local healers. Purposive and convenience sampling was employed to identify respondents who regularly interact with traditional practitioners. The findings reveal that traditional healers are widely consulted for common ailments such as fever, digestive issues, and joint pain, highlighting their role in managing routine and chronic health problems. Cultural legitimacy and community trust emerged as stronger drivers of healer consultation than institutional recognition, while affordability and proximity further support their continued relevance. Respondents often navigate multiple healthcare options, combining government and private doctors with traditional healers, demonstrating the prevalence of medical pluralism in rural settings. Despite their importance, folk healers remain largely absent from official health policies and planning. The study underscores the need for documentation, voluntary training, and inclusion of traditional healers in community health initiatives to bridge gaps between formal healthcare systems and local practices. Recognising and supporting these practitioners can enhance healthcare access, improve preventive and curative outcomes, and ensure culturally sensitive interventions. Traditional healers are not relics of the past but active contributors to health and well-being, reflecting the social, cultural, and experiential dimensions of healthcare in rural Karnataka.