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The Sati system, a regressive and tragic Hindu funeral custom where a widow was immolated on her husband’s funeral pyre, was officially abolished in 1829 by Lord William Bentinck, the then Governor-General of India, with strong advocacy and reformist efforts by Raja Ram Mohan Roy, a prominent social reformer and founder of the Brahmo Samaj.
Historical Overview of the Abolition of Sati System
| Aspect | Details |
| What is Sati? | A former Hindu practice where widows self-immolated on their husband’s pyre. |
| Who Abolished Sati? | Lord William Bentinck (Governor-General of India). |
| Year of Abolition | 1829 |
| Key Social Reformer Involved | Raja Ram Mohan Roy |
| Law Introduced | Bengal Sati Regulation, 1829 (Regulation XVII) |
| British East India Company Role | Enforced the regulation across British India. |
| Opposition Faced | Orthodox Hindu communities and priests. |
Why Was the Sati System Abolished?
Humanitarian Reasons: It was seen as an inhumane and violent act against women.
Reformist Movements: Leaders like Raja Ram Mohan Roy campaigned vigorously, calling it immoral.
British Influence: The British East India Company sought to align governance with humanitarian ideals and global public opinion.
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