**Governor General William Bentinck and the Initiative to Ban Sati**

**Introduction**

Raja Ram Mohan Roy, often hailed as the "Father of the Indian Renaissance," played a pivotal role in various social and religious reforms during the early 19th century. One of his notable achievements was his efforts towards the abolition of the practice of Sati, a custom where widows were expected to immolate themselves on their husband's funeral pyre. This initiative was carried out during the tenure of Governor General William Bentinck.

**Governor General William Bentinck**

William Bentinck served as the Governor-General of India from 1828 to 1835. He was appointed by the British East India Company and played a crucial role in implementing several reforms in India. Bentinck was a liberal-minded administrator who sought to modernize Indian society and address various social evils prevailing at that time.

**Efforts of Raja Ram Mohan Roy**

Raja Ram Mohan Roy, a prominent social reformer and intellectual, vehemently opposed the practice of Sati. He considered it an inhumane and regressive practice that needed to be abolished. With his deep knowledge of Hindu scriptures and his ability to communicate effectively with both Indian and British officials, Roy worked tirelessly to bring about a change in societal attitudes towards Sati.

**Formation of the Sati Regulation Act**

In 1829, Governor General William Bentinck passed the Sati Regulation Act, which declared the practice of Sati illegal in British India. This act aimed to put an end to the custom of Sati and protect the lives of widows who were coerced or forced into self-immolation.

**Raja Ram Mohan Roy's Influence**

Raja Ram Mohan Roy's influence on Governor General William Bentinck cannot be overstated. Roy's arguments and advocacy for the abolition of Sati played a crucial role in shaping Bentinck's decision to pass the Sati Regulation Act. Roy's extensive knowledge of Hindu scriptures and his ability to present logical and rational arguments against Sati helped sway public opinion in favor of its abolition.

**Conclusion**

In conclusion, it was under the tenure of Governor General William Bentinck that Raja Ram Mohan Roy's efforts towards the abolition of Sati bore fruit. The passing of the Sati Regulation Act in 1829 marked a significant step towards eradicating this cruel practice from Indian society. Bentinck's decision was influenced by the persuasive arguments and tireless efforts of Raja Ram Mohan Roy, who played a pivotal role in bringing about this important social reform.

Due to fierce campaign and lobbying of Raja Rammohan Roy and others,Sati practice was formally banned in all the lands under Bengal Presidency by Lord William Bentinck on 4 December 1829.