Due to whose efforts was a ban on Sati put by the Governor-General of India, Lord William Bentinck, by enacting the Bengal Sati Regulation Act, 1829?

The correct answer is Raja Ram Mohan Roy.

Key Points

• Raja Ram Mohan Roy was a prominent social reformer known for his efforts to abolish social evils such as Sati.
• He worked tirelessly to advocate for the eradication of Sati, which involved the immolation of widows on their husband's funeral pyres.
• His efforts led to the enactment of the Bengal Sati Regulation Act of 1829, which officially banned the practice.
• Lord William Bentinck, the Governor-General of India, supported and implemented this legislation due to the persistent efforts of Raja Ram Mohan Roy.
• Raja Ram Mohan Roy is often referred to as the "Father of Modern India" for his progressive views and initiatives in social and educational reforms.

Additional Information

• Sati: Sati was an ancient Hindu practice where widows were forced or chose to immolate themselves on their husband's funeral pyres.
• Bengal Sati Regulation Act (1829): This act was a landmark legislation that declared the practice of Sati illegal and punishable as culpable homicide.
• Lord William Bentinck: He was the Governor-General of India from 1828 to 1835 and is credited with implementing several progressive reforms during his tenure.
• Brahmo Samaj: Raja Ram Mohan Roy founded Brahmo Samaj in 1828, which aimed at reforming Hindu society by promoting monotheism and opposing idolatry.
• Legacy: Raja Ram Mohan Roy's contributions extended beyond social reforms to include efforts in education, women's rights, and the abolition of caste discrimination.