WOMEN SCHOLARS IN ANCIENT INDIA: GUARDIANS OF WISDOM

Abstract

This study explores the significant yet often overlooked role of women scholars in ancient India, emphasizing their contributions to philosophy, religion, and science. In the Vedic period, women like Gargi and Maitreyi actively participated in intellectual discourses, engaging in debates on metaphysical topics and composing hymns. Despite societal shifts in the later Vedic period, the legacy of women scholars endured, particularly during the Bhakti movement, which revitalized their role as spiritual and literary custodians. This research also examines the intellectual contributions of women in Buddhist and Jain traditions, where figures like Mahaprajapati Gautami and Chandanbala navigated spiritual and monastic roles. Furthermore, the study highlights women’s involvement in medicine and science, from ancient times through to the modern era, showcasing their continuous influence across disciplines. By re-evaluating historical texts and cultural narratives, this study calls for a broader recognition of the intellectual legacy of women scholars in India, stressing the importance of their contributions to the preservation and dissemination of knowledge.