Johaar

Johaar (also spelled Jauhar) is a historical and cultural practice of mass self-immolation by women, primarily in the Rajput community of the Indian subcontinent, to avoid capture, enslavement, and dishonor at the hands of an invading enemy force during a war or siege. It is typically associated with periods of intense conflict and loss, representing a final act of defiance and sacrifice to protect their honor and preserve their freedom.

The practice of Johaar is often mentioned in historical narratives and epic poems, most notably relating to sieges of Rajput forts in present-day Rajasthan, India. The women, led by a queen or a prominent female figure, would immolate themselves collectively in a massive fire, ensuring that they would not be taken alive and subjected to mistreatment by the victorious forces.

While Johaar is often viewed as a tragic act born out of desperate circumstances, it also carries symbolic weight. It represents courage, honor, and the ultimate sacrifice for the preservation of cultural identity and religious beliefs. Modern interpretations of Johaar are often complex and contested, with some viewing it as a symbol of female empowerment in the face of adversity, while others criticize it as a reflection of patriarchal control over women's lives and choices.