Suttee, also known as sati, is a historical practice in some parts of India where a widow would self-immolate or be forced to commit suicide on her husband's funeral pyre. This ritual was rooted in cultural beliefs about loyalty and honor, suggesting that a woman's virtue was tied to her husband. The practice of suttee was officially banned by the British colonial government in the 19th century due to its inhumane nature and the efforts of reformers like Raja Ram Mohan Roy. Despite its prohibition, the legacy of suttee continues to influence discussions about women's rights and cultural practices in modern society.