Dattaka, or the adoption of a son, was a significant practice in ancient India, particularly among the Hindu community. It stemmed from the belief in the importance of progeny and the continuation of one's lineage, both in the material world and in the afterlife.
The ancient sages emphasized the significance of life beyond
the present realm, including the realm of the ancestors (pitrloka). In this
context, having a son was crucial, as he would inherit the father's property
and perform the necessary rituals, such as the shraddha ceremony, after the
father's passing.
Here are some key points regarding the practice of dattaka:
Eligibility for Adoption: Any adult male of sound mind,
belonging to the Hindu community, could adopt a son if he had no biological
son, grandson, or close male relative eligible to perform the shraddha ceremony
after his death. The adopted son had to be from the same caste as the adoptive
father.
Right to Give Consent: The primary right to give a son for
adoption rested with the natural father. However, the mother could also consent
to adoption, provided she obtained her husband's agreement or if she was a
widow.
Conditions for Giving a Son for Adoption: If a person had
more than one son, only then could they give a son for adoption. However, the
eldest son was not eligible for adoption. If there was only one son, adoption
was generally not permitted, but in exceptional cases, it was allowed under
specific conditions.
Adoption Procedure: The process of adoption involved various
rituals and steps outlined in the dharmashastras. These included fasting by the
adopter, offering rituals to the officiating priest, recitation of Vedic
verses, symbolic gestures like holding the boy's hands to signify acceptance
into the family, and offering of boiled rice.
Legal Status of Adopted Son: Once adopted, the boy became
legally equivalent to a natural son, enjoying all rights and privileges, as
well as shouldering the same duties and responsibilities within the family.
Inheritance: If the adopter later had a biological son, the
adopted son would typically receive one-fourth share of the property.
Adoption of Girls: While adoption was more commonly
associated with boys, there were instances of girls being adopted as well.
Examples from Hindu epics include Shanta, the adopted daughter of Romapada, and
Kunti, who was adopted by Kuntibhoja.
Dattaka served not only as a means of continuing one's
lineage and fulfilling religious duties but also reflected the social and
cultural values of ancient Hindu society.