Essay Questions

What were the Thuggee?

Led by a man named Mola Ram, the Thuggee were a religious-based cult which practiced child slavery, black magic, and ritual human sacrifice - all in the name of their goddess, Kali. Although they were seemingly eradicated by the British in the 1800s, many in the religion survived underground. The sect led by Mola Ram lived underground for many years until they could put their plan in action. In an effort to destroy all other religions, the Thuggee had to steal as many powerful stones as they could (one of which came from the villagers Indiana Jones and his sidekicks helped) and regrettably, enslave children for their workforce in very small mines.

Not unimportantly, the Thuggee also worked to gain independence for India from Britain through violent means - something diametrically opposed to the movement led by Gandhi, which would ultimately result in Indian independence.

Why does Indiana Jones help the villagers?

Indy, as he is affectionately called, helps the villagers for several reasons. For one, he desperately needs them to guide him to Delhi, where he could return to his university and return teaching. He also is intrigued by what the villagers are saying. He thought that Pankot palace had been deserted for many years and was intrigued by the thought of an evil force that has terrorized the villagers and India as a whole - could it even be the Thuggee?

Ultimately, Jones helps the villagers because he feels sorry for them. They live on very little food and live a very poor life. If he could do one thing that helps them and simultaneously lets him learn more, then he would happily do it.