Origin and Growth of Satī in Early Medieval India: A Historical Investigation explores the historical background and evolution of the Satī practice in early medieval India. The ancient custom of a widow immolating herself on her husband’s funeral pyre—known as Satī—has a complex and multifaceted history. Initially viewed as an expression of devotion and fidelity, the practice gradually transformed over time and was, in many instances, imposed upon widows.
This study traces the evolution of Satī from a rare and voluntary act to a more institutionalised and widespread ritual, particularly among the upper social strata. It examines the social and economic forces that contributed to its proliferation, including the emergence of warrior and royal cultures, inheritance disputes, and the consolidation of patriarchal norms.
Drawing upon literary and epigraphic sources, the authors provide a detailed analysis of various dimensions of the Satī tradition. They also consider the influence of colonial interpretations, orientalist discourses, and indigenous cultural frameworks. Through this comprehensive and nuanced approach, the book offers a deeper understanding of the complex historical trajectory of Satī in early medieval India.
