Social Adjustment of Widows after Circumstantial Remarriage (Karewa) in Haryana: A Sociological analysis of Ambala District

In the agrarian setting of Haryana, social and cultural norms are largely shaped by the land-owning class, especially those caste that are dominant in terms of social, economic, and demographic strength. Taking into account the various socio-economic factors of the region, the present study attempts to explore the different dimensions of social adjustment in the life of a widow after circumstantial remarriage, and her perspective toward such marriage.Usually, within the family, maintaining the widow’s subordinate status serves the purpose of controlling her property, sexuality, and fertility. Widow remarriage is called Karewa . The present study analyzes the implications of Karewaon women’s lives from a gendered perspective. It also attempts to understand the condition of those women who are compelled to accept Karewa as a social stigma.These women’s socio-economic status is deeply affected by the patriarchal structure. The nature of the study is both qualitative and quantitative. It was found that such marriages increase the exploitation of widows, cause difficulties in family adjustment, and lack legal recognition in many cases. It is appropriate to say that a widow faces a double burden in society.