Chapter 123: Social Evils
Same night, Delhi kingdom, some where in outskirts of lakhnow city.
As night enveloped the outskirts of Lakhnau (lucknow), the caravan of Queen Raamya of Bengal moved silently through the darkness. The queens caravan consisted with 3,000 soldiers disguised as merchants in loose robes, and 1,000 cavalry serving as security, positioned strategically at the front and rear.
Inside the palanquin, Amira rested her head gently on Raamya’s lap, while the queen nestled her body against her like a favorite pillow. The queen’s regal saree shimmered softly in the moonlight, casting a faint glow as she gazed out at the blurred scenery passing through the curtains.
Suddenly, the rhythmic noise of the journey was disrupted by an abrupt halt. The palanquin swayed gently as the caravan came to a standstill. Raamya’s brow furrowed as she was roused from her reverie.
"What is it, Vikram?" she asked with authority.
Vikram, the commander, responded, "Your Majesty, there’s a large gathering ahead. It appears to be a sati pratha. I suggest we wait until it is over."
Intrigued, Raamya lifted the curtain and peered outside. A crowd had gathered, their faces illuminated by flickering torchlight. At the center of the grim spectacle was a beautiful girl aged near 14, dressed as a bride, sat atop the funeral pyre with lifeless eyes. Nearby, the body of an elderly man lay for the grim ritual.
Raamya gently rested Amira’s head back in the palanquin and stepped out. Though she had heard of the ritual, she had never witnessed it nor fully understood it.
She approached Vikram and asked, "What will happen to that girl? Why is she sitting there?"
Vikram, his gaze downcast, replied, "Once her husband dies, she is to be immolated with him if no one is willing to care for her."
The response shocked Raamya. She struggled to comprehend the cruelty and the age gap involved. "Isn’t it supposed to be voluntary?" she asked.
Vikram hesitated before responding, "Your Majesty, it is meant to be voluntary. I’ve heard tales of women seeking sainthood or divine glory by this act, but in reality, many are forced into it."