Question

Status of women in India during Early Vedic Period

Write a short note on the following:

Status of Women in the Early Vedic Period

Answer 1

1. Indian women enjoyed a comparatively high status during the early Vedic period as compared to the Later Vedic period. 
2. They had access to Vedic education. They were entitled to the upanayana (thread) ceremony which enabled them entry into the Gurukul system of education. 
3. Educated women were divided into two categories: Sadyavadhu and Brahmavadinis. Sadyavadhu pursued their education until they were married while Brahmavadinis never married and continued studying and imparting education throughout life. 
4. Women were considered as useful and productive members of society.
5. They could participate in social assemblies (vidath). They were also permitted to choose their life partners for marriage.
6. They did not have equal rights with their male counterparts as regards social and legal aspects. They did not possess the right to property.
7. Vedas and Vedangas were taught to women too, but later became limited to religious songs and poems necessary for rituals. 
8. Some notable Vedic and Upanishadic women scholars were Apala, Indrani, Ghosha, Lopamudra, Gargi and Maitreyi.