What is the role of women in Vedic tradition?
This can be seen from the perspective of Indian history, which can be broadly divided into: ancient, medieval and modern.
In ancient India, women played an equal role in Vedic Study & practice.
In medieval India, due to foreign invasion & rule, the Indian society turned protectionist and as a by-product, orthodoxy gained popularity in Vedic tradition. As a part of protectionist orthodoxy, women were prohibited from Vedic Study & practice.
In modern India, women's role in Vedic study & practice were rejuvenated due to the efforts of scholars like Sri Dayanand Saraswati, Sri Aurobindo…etc.
In ancient India, Rigveda & Samaveda themselves identify Rishikas. Both Ramayana & Mahabharata record that women studied and practiced Vedas. In Sarvanukramani, Katyaayana mentions women who were Rishikas.
Women who chose to study Vedas and then marry were called Brahmavadini. Women who chose to marry and then study Vedas were called Sadhyovadhu. Many of them even rose to the level of seeing Veda mantras and be called Rishikas
Vedic Tribe is happy to bring you a short series on 18 of these Rishikas. We will share the numbering of Rigveda's Sutka & Mandala, where Mantras are attributed to them. We will also share a short background about these Rishikas. There are of many more Rishikas whose details will be shared in another series.
We are sure that this creates more curiosity towards studying & practicing Vedas.
Madhwesh K
Vedic Tribe
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