While this was an editor I had only worked with once before, we’d hit it off immediately, and had discussed everything from my crazy work-all-night schedule to the birth of his children. The editor had loved what I had done for them before and received fantastic feedback on it from his staff, so we were quite comfortable with each other. Because of that, even though he was still editing my earlier piece, you’ll notice that my query is laidback and doesn’t try too hard. I don’t need to mention credits or bio because he’s already aware of what I bring to the table.

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Hi X,

Hope you’re well. I know you’re still looking at the [earlier] piece, but I came across this timely story that I thought I’d send your way. Let me know if you find it interesting.

When’s the baby due? Ask your astrologer

As the concern over the rising rates of caesarean sections grows around the world, in India, the opposite is happening: couples are increasingly opting for them. In consultation with their astrologers.

Middle-class Indians today, with access to some of the best healthcare in the world, are opting for premeditated caesarian sections in order to perfectly time the birth of their babies. In this practice that is both dangerous and controversial (but increasingly popular), couples consult with their astrologers to make sure that their child is born at an “auspicious time” of their choosing, at great risk to both mother and baby. No doubt astrologers– and doctors– are profiting. Some hospitals now even boast of astrology departments.

The story hasn’t been picked up yet by any international media, and I’d love to report on it for you. Let me know if you can use it.

Thanks so much, X. I look forward to the edits and hearing what you think of this story idea.

Best,
Mridu

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The published piece: In India, C-Sections are in the Stars