This article describes the origins & the 20th century practice of sati–or the immolation of a wife at her husband’s funeral pyre. The author criticizes the religious underpinnings of this ritual, as well as the social stereotypes of men & women in Indian society which have allowed sati to continue. The historical period of a matriarchial society in India is also described, & the caste system is explained as a possible reaction to this early society. (VM)