Satyabhama

SATYABHAMA
- the forgotten saga

This fictional story is set in the early 19th century in Maharashtra, India, when Maratha era, under the Peshwa, was in decline and there was significant domination of the East India Company over the subcontinent.
In the annals of history, there exist tales that are etched into the fabric of time, reminding us of the darkness that once shrouded the lives of women. The novels deals with the practice of Sati, a deeply rooted tradition in ancient India. Sati involved a widow immolating herself on her husband's funeral pyre. The ritual was prevalent in Royal families but later become a common practice followed strictly, irrespective of caste system.
It was only in the year 1829 that the flames of Sati were finally extinguished, thanks to the collective efforts of visionary reformers like Raja Ram Mohan Roy and William Bentinck, the then Governor General of India. The legal ban on Sati signified a crucial step towards gender equality and the recognition of women's rights. Despite the legal ban and societal awareness, incidents of Sati continued to haunt society, revealing the persistent shadows of the past.
One such incident occurred on September 4, 1987, when Roop Kanwar, a young lady, made a decision that sent shockwaves throughout the nation. In a heart-wrenching act of self-immolation, she chose to leap into the funeral pyre of her husband, defying the laws and societal norms that had declared Sati as a crime. The tragedy of Roop Kanwar stirred debates, discussions, and movements across the country. People, who were once spectators to her fate, described her act in divine terms, sparking polarizing opinions on her choice. On October 1, 1987, the Commission of Sati (Prevention) Bill was introduced that made abetment to committing Sati or its glorification punishable by law. This historical background serve as a reminder of the oppressive practices prevalent in the past and the progress made in fighting against them. Within this narrative, we follow the journey of a brother and his sister as they confront the harrowing reality of the Sati ritual, which was prevalent during the era. Through their experiences, it is aimed to shed light on the profound anguish and challenges faced by individuals caught in the clutches of this oppressive tradition. Their story serves as a catalyst to raise awareness about the heinous crimes committed against women and the urgent need for societal change to avoid gratification of Sati practice being done even today through media.
This humble endeavor seeks to weave together an imaginary tale that casts light on the injustices endured by women during the period and the significance of challenging deep-rooted cultural practices. By exploring this poignant story, we hope to contribute to the ongoing dialogue on gender equality, human rights, and the power of transformation within society. As we unveil this narrative, we invite you, dear readers, to embark on a journey of reflection and contemplation. Let the journey begin, for within these pages lie the embers of resilience that will light the way towards a more just and equitable society.
Disclaimer
This novel is a work of fiction. Any resemblance to actual persons, living or deceased, or actual events is purely coincidental. The references to past historical dates are included for the purpose of setting and atmosphere, and should not be interpreted as factual. The author has taken creative liberties in developing the storyline, characters, and setting to enhance the reader's experience. All characters, names, places, and incidents are products of the author's imagination.