Beastly encounters of the Raj: Livelihoods, livestock and veterinary health in North India, 17901920 (Studies in Imperialism, 121)

Delve into the untold history of colonial India through the lens of veterinary medicine with Saurabh Mishra's groundbreaking work, *Beastly Encounters of the Raj: Livelihoods, Livestock and Veterinary Health in North India, 17901920*. This compelling hardcover edition, part of the esteemed "Studies in Imperialism" series (volume 121) from Manchester University Press, offers a fresh and vital perspective on the social, economic, and political landscape of British India. While existing scholarship has largely focused on human health, Mishra's meticulously researched monograph shines a spotlight on the crucial role of animal health and livestock in shaping the colonial experience. This is not simply a history of veterinary practices; it's a deeply insightful social history of cattle and other livestock in North India. Mishra masterfully weaves together the threads of famines, agrarian relations, urban development, the evolving attitudes of the middle class, and the complex dynamics of caste formations, all with the question of livestock at its very heart. By centering the narrative on the lives and health of animals, *Beastly Encounters of the Raj* challenges conventional understandings of colonial power, economic structures, and social hierarchies. Explore how British policies and veterinary interventions impacted local livelihoods, agricultural practices, and the very fabric of rural society. Discover the ways in which indigenous knowledge systems clashed with Western scientific approaches to animal care, and the resulting consequences for both humans and animals. This book sheds light on the often-overlooked struggles and resilience of Indian communities in the face of colonial rule. Mishra's work is more than just a historical account; it's a vital contribution to the growing field of interdisciplinary studies, bridging the gap between medical history and social history. It encourages a more holistic understanding of the past, one that recognizes the interconnectedness of human and animal well-being. Readers interested in South Asian history, colonial studies, animal studies, or the history of medicine will find this book to be an indispensable resource. Prepare to be challenged, enlightened, and moved by this pioneering exploration of a neglected chapter in Indian history. This first edition is an essential addition to any academic library or personal collection.