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UPSC CSE Prelims 1995, Paper I

Status of Women in Ancient India

Authentic Past Paper Standard Evaluation

Who among the following was a Brahmavadini who composed some hymns of the Vedas?

Solution & Analysis

Answer: A

Concept 'Brahmavadinis' were female scholars and philosophers in ancient India who dedicated themselves to the study of the Vedas and composed hymns.

Explanation Rigvedic hymns are attributed to several women, including Lopamudra (wife of Sage Agastya), Ghosha, and Vishwavara.

Logical Breakup
Lopamudra: A recognized composer of Rigvedic hymns.
Gargi: A philosopher in the Upanishadic period (later), known for debating Yajnavalkya.
Leelavati: A character/title in a 12th-century mathematical treatise.
Savitri: A mythological figure representing devotion, not primarily a Vedic composer.

Active Recall

Question

What does the existence of Brahmavadinis tell us about early Vedic society?

Answer

It indicates that women had access to high education, could perform rituals, and contributed intellectually to the most sacred scriptures of the time.

Core Insight

The high status of women like Lopamudra in the Rigvedic era provides a sharp contrast to the declining status of women in the later Smriti and Puranic periods.

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