thuggee

Thuggee refers to a historical criminal cult active in South Asia, primarily between the 17th and 19th centuries. Members of this cult, known as Thugs, were notorious for their systematic practice of robbery and murder. They often operated in disguise, posing as travelers or pilgrims, and would gain the trust of their victims before ambushing and killing them. The preferred method of murder was strangulation, typically using a sash or cloth, which allowed for quiet and efficient execution. The victims were often then buried, their bodies hidden to avoid detection.

The Thugs were organized into decentralized gangs, often bound by familial ties or shared traditions. Their activities were widespread across the Indian subcontinent, and they were known for their deep knowledge of the terrain and their ability to blend into society. Their motives were primarily economic, driven by the desire for material wealth. They developed rituals and a belief system that, according to some accounts, deified the goddess Kali, though the exact nature of their religious practices remains a subject of historical debate.

The British colonial administration, particularly during the 19th century, made a concerted effort to eradicate Thuggee. Through extensive investigations and the implementation of special legislation, such as the Thuggee and Dacoitee Act of 1837, the authorities were largely successful in dismantling the cult's operations. This campaign led to the arrest and conviction of thousands of individuals associated with Thuggee, effectively bringing an end to its organized existence as a significant criminal enterprise. The term "thug" has since entered the English language, often used to describe a violent criminal.