Sati Pratha : A Horrible Tradition

In Nepal, as a Hindu country, there are and were lots of traditions and cultures. Some of them were good while some were bad. ‘Sati Pratha’ was one of the bad traditions. It was not only a tradition but a total dreadful nightmare for Nepalese or Hindu women. So, you might be wondering why it is called a nightmare. Let me tell you about this horrifying tradition called ‘Sati Pratha.’

Basically, ‘Sati Pratha’ is the ancient Hindu practice of burning a widow on her husband’s funeral pyre, or burning her alive in his grave. This practice is associated with Hindu tradition. During this Pratha, some women chose to become Sati of their own will while most women were forced. If they didn’t agree to go Sati, their in-laws and relatives would force them or even physically or mentally abuse or torture them.

Now, you might be curious, why did this horrific tradition even start in the first place, right? It is believed that Sati Pratha was seen in Nepal first and it spread to other countries like India. In Nepal, Sati Pratha started during the rule of the Licchavi Dynasty. Some people also believe that this tradition was started by the Hindu goddess Sati (who became Parvati upon rebirth), and this tradition was named after her. She burned herself in a fire in response to the disrespect shown to her husband (Lord Shiva). Her act of devotion was celebrated and, over time, became the practice of Sati more commonly known today. Another common belief is that Nepal is a male-dominated country, and some so-called high-class males created this Pratha to dominate females.

As it is said, sooner or later, everything comes to an end. This horrifying, dreadful, and traumatizing tradition also came to an end. There were many people who were against this tradition, but there were also a few people who wanted to continue this tradition, but they lost for good. There were many movements against Sati Pratha. Sati Pratha was stopped by William Bentinck (Governor-General of India) globally at first in 1829 A.D. Later, Prime Minister Chandra Shumsher abolished Sati Pratha in Nepal on Ashad 25, 1977 B.S.

Sati Pratha was indeed a terrifying culture that lasted for centuries but ended for good. Many people were against it while others supported it despite its awfulness. It was a very good decision by Prime Minister Chandra Shumsher and others who helped to stop this tradition because it was against the rights of women and human values. What do you think?

Thank you.

Nistha Bakhunchhe

Grade 10

Manoram Boarding Secondary School 

Bhaktapur