JAUHAR IS COLLECTIVE SUICIDE BY MASS SELF-IMMOLATION IN MASSIVE FIRE AMONG HINDU RAJPUT WOMEN IN INDIA
*Dr. Dhrubo Jyoti Sen
Jauhar (or Jahar Brata) was a historical practice of mass self-immolation among Hindu Rajput women in India to avoid capture, rape, and enslavement by invading enemy armies, particularly during the Delhi Sultanate era. It was considered an act of honour and ultimate sacrifice, often occurring after the men committed 'Saka' (a last-stand, fight-to-the-death battle). The Jauhar Kund (or Jauhar Stahal) is a historic site within the Chittorgarh Fort in Rajasthan, marking where Rajput women committed mass self-immolation (Jauhar) to avoid capture, rape, and enslavement by invaders. The most famous instance was led by Rani Padmini in 1303 after Alauddin Khilji's victory. Jauhar Kund is a historical site of mass self-immolation practiced by Rajput women, most notably at Chittorgarh Fort, Rajasthan, to avoid capture and enslavement by invaders, primarily during the 14th-16th centuries. The most renowned instance, the Jauhar of Rani Padmini, occurred in 1303 upon Alauddin Khilji's invasion.
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