The Tamil Nadu Devadasis (Prevention of Dedication) Act, 1947

The Tamil Nadu Devadasis (Prevention of Dedication) Act, 1947

This law bans the practice of dedicating women of any age to Hindu deities or temples as devadasis, declaring all such rituals and customs unlawful and legally void. It ensures that dedicated women retain the legal right to marry and outlaws traditions that associate ritual performances with prostitution or marriage disqualification. Additionally, the Act prohibits women from dancing in temple grounds or religious processions. It applies to anyone aged sixteen or older who performs, permits, abets, or participates in these forbidden dedications or dances. Violators face fines or up to six months of imprisonment, aiming to abolish religious exploitation and protect women’s social rights.

PDF: pending for this language.