This document provides a summary of a rapid assessment study conducted in India on the Devadasi practice, a tradition where lower caste Hindu girls are dedicated to deities and temple priests. Some key findings:
- Interviews were conducted with 175 current and former Devadasis across 3 states to understand their socioeconomic conditions.
- The Devadasi system has a long history in India but was banned in 1988 though it continues illegally in some areas. an estimated 1 million women may still be involved.
- Most Devadasis come from scheduled castes and are dedicated between ages 8-18 due to family economic needs or tradition. They face discrimination and have little education or assets.
- Many Dev