Another book-seller Dhananjay Kale from Central Book Stall, Sitabuldi, had similar information to share. Aditi Kothari from Danayat Book Stall said, “The followers are increasing and not only books but CDs on Garbha Sanskaar and related musical therapies are also in demand.”

But is this random pick of books and CDs really worth? Is the resultant impact really as effective? Dr Sunita Ghike, Professor of Gynaecology, NKP Salve Medical College said, “I would not advise pregnant women to follow any bookish advice without expert recommendations. Of course, these books have some really good material, but it would not necessarily suit every woman the same way.”

She further said that Garbha Sanskaar starts from even before conceiving. There are some processes mentioned in Ayurveda which explain about how to conceive, a ritual after seven weeks of pregnancy, importance of nature and thinking of parents and personality of parents decides the personality of baby, she said.

Dr Ghike said, “If pregnant women keep themselves happy and follow some good tips at home there is no need to join any classes. Keeping herself happy, following healthy diet, recitation of some shlokas, loud reading of good books helps in imbibing values on the foetus. A Yoga expert can also be consulted for breathing exercises.”

Dr Renuka Jambhorkar, who runs Garbha Sanskaar classes in Swawalambi Nagar, said that pregnant women should not follow tips blindly by reading books. “As mentioned in Ayurveda, ‘prakruti’ of a person decides nature and choices of individual and in our medical science a proper way of maintaining metabolism has also been mentioned. Garbha Sanskaar is a science and women should understand this,” she stressed.

Dr Jambhorkar further said that pregnant women should avoid using computers, headphones and electronic gadgets as UV radiations from them may have adverse effect on their health. Dr Smita Devale said, “The young parents-to-be these days realise that there has been a decline in values and quality of life. Hence, they are seeking help of Garbha Sanskaars.”

She suggested regular classes and expert advice for best results. In the modernisation process of today’s society, the need to reaffirm presence of Indian values is being felt badly. The increasing tilt of couples today towards Garbha Sanskaar is probably an indication that the values that were fading out with time need to be established again in the society.