THE HINDU WIDOWS

Modern Indian society seems unable to modify some aspects of Hindu orthodox culture, according to which widowed women no longer have any social right and utility. The rapid materialistic modernization of society has not corresponded equally strong social inclusion and a clear break of cultural and religious barriers that for centuries have condemned them to an existence of suffering and degradation since the death of her husband, or more simply, since he decides to have another woman. It is difficult, in a society where a woman's identity is so tied to that of a husband that a widow (or a single woman) loses everything - even dignity - that a true gender equality could mature, and policies to cope violence against women may be implemented.