Reading Women in the Indian Cultural Context with Special Reference to the Vedas

Women of the Vedic period, were epitomes of intellectual and spiritual attainments. The Vedas have volumes to say about these women, who both complemented and supplemented their male partners. This paper represents an understanding of the status of women in the Indian cultural context, as mentioned in the Vedas. During the earlier times, the women were considered with respect. Many women Rishis have contributed to the hymns of the Vedas. They were also known as ‘Brahmavadini’ In terms of their status, they were treated equally as their male counterparts. They even had an access to proper education. This paper also talks about women’s freedom in various fields. They also contributed to the battlefield. Despite the patriarchal structure, women enjoyed their own rights and privileges. They had right to choose their own husband through ‘Swayamvara’. This paper examines the status of women in early Vedic period through different aspects.