The Controversial History of Sati: A Practice of Ritual Suicide in India

Sati (also known as suttee or sutee) was a practice in some cultures of India, particularly among the Rajputs and other high-caste Hindus, where a widow would immolate herself on her husband's funeral pyre. This practice was considered a form of ritual suicide and was seen as a way for the widow to join her deceased husband in the afterlife.
The practice of sati has a long history in India, dating back to at least the 4th century AD. It was particularly prevalent during the medieval period, when it was considered a mark of respect and devotion for a widow to sacrifice herself for her husband. The practice was not limited to Hindus, but was also practiced by some Muslim and Sikh communities.
The practice of sati was banned in British India in 1829, and it has since been outlawed in most countries where it was previously practiced. However, there have been instances of women still attempting to commit sati in recent years, often as a form of protest or as a way to draw attention to their grievances.
Sati is considered a controversial and sensitive topic, and its history and significance are the subject of ongoing debate among scholars and activists. Some see it as a symbol of patriarchal oppression and gender inequality, while others view it as a noble act of devotion and loyalty. Regardless of one's perspective, it is clear that sati has had a profound impact on the social and cultural fabric of India and other countries where it was practiced.