Honour and sacrifice

Jauhar is a historical dark event in South Asia, characterised by mass self-immolation observed during the medieval ages to uphold honour and dignity in the face of invasion. It was traditionally practised alongside the Saka, in which men would engage in a final battle before facing death. This chapter critically examines Jauhar as a historical dark event, with a focus on its representation in literary and historical narratives. Women participated in Jauhar to escape confinement and humiliation, a courageous effort to preserve cultural dignity. In this context, self-immolation reflects societal norms and valour associated with self-sacrifice. Suicide in this context, viewed as a fight for honour and a form of resistance, symbolises a refusal to live in a world of dishonour. Linked to other ancient Indian co-cremation rituals, including Sahamarana (dying together), Sahagamana (going together), Anumarana (following in death), Anugamana (going along with or after someone), Anumrtyu (the practice of following someone in death), and Anvarohana (climbing the pyre after someone), this chapter analyses historical and literary texts to explore the cultural narratives surrounding Jauhar through the lens of co-cremation.