In order to investigate the perception of male & female suicide in India, a focus group of university professors, police inspectors, crime reporters & hospital nurses were interviewed. Women tended to be blamed for their own or their husband’s suicide, although they were often viewed as victims of life adversities. A historical review illustrates that both men & women have been associated with culturally sanctioned suicides. The 1987 case of Roop Kanwar, a sati-murder victim, is discussed.