Request for information on nata and its impact on HIV/AIDS

[Guest guest]

Dear FORUM,

My name is Chirantani and am working with the Heroes Project in Mumbai.

I need some information on " nata " a cultural practice prevalent in

Sothern Rajasthan, some parts of gujarat and Madhya Pradesh. 'nata' is a

practice which allows widows and those deserted by their husbands to live with

men outside of marriage. It is a system of second marriage, which is common in

certain parts of Rajasthan. It confers a lower status upon women.

'nata' is started off as a way of arranging second marriages for women in case

of separation, desertion or death in their first marriage. However,

increasingly, it is carried out for monetary gain. Nata also increases women's

vulnerability to HIV/AIDS.

I am trying to collect information on the practice of 'nata' in Rajasthan and

it's implications on women's vulnerability to HIV/AIDS.

If any one has any study/information/write up on the same then I would be

extremely grateful if they can share it with me.

Thanks,

Chirantani Dey

e-mail: <chirantani.dey@...>