Satipratha O Panpratha by Subrataa Sen [Hardcover]

How did the cruel practice of Sati emerge in Indian society? When we trace the origins and evolution of the Sati tradition, we find references to the ancient Indo-European practice of self-immolation. Was a woman's devotion to her husband the sole reason behind this ritual of self-sacrifice or enforced immolation? In the Puranas, as well as in commentaries, annotations, and treatises on religious scriptures, the concepts of pativrata (wifely devotion) and a widow ascending her husband's funeral pyre have been inextricably linked. The terms "Sati" and "Sati-daha" (Sati immolation) emerged in later periods.

Subrata Sen’s scholarly work, Sati System and Dowry System: In Search of Origins and Evolution, is undoubtedly a rigorous endeavor. Across ten chapters, the author delves into the origins and development of the Sati practice, discussing traditions of self-immolation among ancient civilizations, religious annotations, interpretations, and essays on the subject. Alongside this, he examines the rituals associated with Sati and the historical protests against the practice.

In contemporary Indian society, dowry remains prevalent, whereas ancient society followed the practice of bride-price. The author explores the origins and evolution of the dowry system in seven chapters, covering the history and popularity of purchase-based marriages in ancient India, as well as modern dowry laws and religious scriptures. Books of such depth on the oppressive practices of Sati and dowry are indeed rare in the Bengali language.