Women, Religion and Tradition: The Cult of Jogins, Matangis and Basvis

Book Details

• Author: Vakulabharanam Lalitha

• Publisher: Rawat Publications

• Language: English

• Edition: 2011

• ISBN: 9788131603765

• Pages: 298

• Cover: Hardcover

• Package Dimensions: 8.7 x 5.9 x 0.9 inches

About the Book

On Devadasi Tradition with Reference to Andhra Pradesh, India offers an in-depth exploration of the Devadasi system, a religious and cultural practice rooted in ancient South India. The book provides a detailed empirical study conducted over two decades (1985–2006), examining the origins, spread, and social ramifications of the Devadasi tradition in Andhra Pradesh and the broader Deccan region.

The practice of dedicating girls to temples as servants of deities, known by various names such as Devadasis, Jogins, Matangis, and others, is a complex cultural and religious phenomenon that has deep historical and social implications. This book critically analyzes the exploitation of women under the guise of religion, focusing on the intersection of gender, tradition, and social injustice.

The author evaluates the impact of reformative and rehabilitative measures taken by both governmental and non-governmental organizations to address this pernicious practice. It stands as one of the first comprehensive studies of the Devadasi system, shedding light on its detrimental effects on women and their struggle for liberation.

This book is essential reading for scholars, social activists, and anyone interested in the intersection of culture, religion, and women’s rights in South India.

Key Topics Covered:

• The Devadasi Tradition and its Cultural Significance

• Gender and Exploitation in Religious Practices

• Historical Development and Spread of the Devadasi System

• Reform and Rehabilitation Measures for Devadasis

• Intersection of Religion, Tradition, and Women's Rights

About the Author
Vakulabharanam Lalitha is a distinguished anthropologist with a doctoral degree in Social Anthropology from the University of Calcutta. With nearly four decades of experience in teaching, research, and administration, she is recognized for her critical studies on social and cultural practices in Andhra Pradesh. Her work on criminal tribes and other anthropological research has earned her significant recognition in academic circles.