The Position of Women in Hindu Civilisation, from Prehistoric Times to the Present Day c9.28

c9.28

The earliest historical instance of Satī is that of the wife of the Hindu general Keteus, who died in 316 b. c. while fighting against Antigonos. Both the wives of the general were very anxious to accompany their husband on the funeral pyre, but as the elder one was with child, the younger one alone was allowed to carry out her wish. Greek writers tell us that she was led to the pyre by her brother, and that she was all gleeful even when the flames enveloped her person. Some Greek historians tell us that the custom was prevalent among the Kathians (Kaṭhas) of the Punjab. It was, however, still confined only to a few Kshatriya circles, for it is not noticed by Greek writers in connection with other fighting tribes, which stubbornly opposed Alexander and many members of which died while fighting with the invader.