Author: Xayrullayeva, Iroda Faxriddinovna

Annotation: Xayrullayeva, Iroda FaxriIndian society is distinguished by its ancient civilizational roots, complex social structures, and diverse religious traditions. However, alongside this historical and cultural richness, the issue of gender inequality has long been one of the society's persistent challenges. Gender inequality is linked not only to economic and political factors but also directly to deeply rooted traditional customs and religious rituals. This article provides an in-depth analysis of the historical, social, and cultural roots of gender inequality in Indian society and examines—through a comparative approach—the traditional customs and religious rituals that have directly influenced the formation of this disparity. The study analyzes, based on scholarly sources, the compulsory social and practical systems imposed on women, including patriarchal control, the practice of *sati*, traditional restrictions regarding marriage and widowhood, and religious customs governing social roles. At the same time, it highlights the largely voluntary nature of religious rituals associated with men—such as asceticism, practices of spiritual purification involving bodily mortification, and other ceremonies. The article also examines the transformation of these customs and rituals across historical periods and their impact on contemporary Indian society. The scholarly analysis leads to the conclusion that addressing gender inequality requires not only legal reforms but also a re-evaluation of cultural and religious stereotypes.ddinovna

Keywords: gender inequality, Indian society, patriarchy, religious rituals, customs, early marriage, dowry, Jauhar, Saka, Thaipusam, tapasya, brahmacharya, voluntariness, cultural stereotypes.

Pages in journal: 179 - 185