British Abolish Suttee in India | Research Starters | EBSCO Research

<p>The practice known as suttee, or sati, was a long-standing custom in some Hindu communities in India where widows would self-immolate on their husbands' funeral pyres. This practice, which has roots in ancient Hindu texts, was often viewed as a means for women to demonstrate loyalty and achieve spiritual merit, although it could also stem from social pressures, including the stigma associated with widowhood. The British East India Company, upon establishing control in India, initially adopted a policy of minimal interference with local customs, although some local officials expressed concern over the practice.</p> <p>The significant shift towards abolition came under Governor-General William Bentinck in 1829, influenced by reformers like Rammohan Ray, who argued that suttee was not a religious obligation and advocated for women's rights and education. Despite opposition from conservative segments of Hindu society, Bentinck's law criminalized the practice, marking a turning point in colonial attitudes toward Indian customs. While the legal ban was established, instances of suttee persisted in some regions for several decades, and even into the 20th century, isolated cases were reported. Today, the overwhelming majority of Hindus condemn suttee, though discussions about its historical and cultural significance continue, highlighting the complexities of tradition, gender, and reform in Indian society.</p>