Contribution of women and their depiction in Indian Literature

Published on 12 Oct 2025

In ancient Indian literature, women played diverse and multi-faceted roles. While their positions and agency varied across different time periods, regions, and social contexts, they were not passive bystanders but active participants in the narratives.

Ancient Period

Vedic Literature: The ancient Vedic texts contain hymns and verses composed by women known as "rishi-patnis" and contributed to the Rigveda.

Example: Brihadaranyaka Upanishad is revered for women’s philosophical and spiritual significance.

Symbolic Representations: Women in ancient Indian literature often served as symbolic representations of various virtues, values, and concepts.

Example: Goddess Sita symbolizes purity while Goddess Kali represents power.

Epics and Puranas: Ancient Indian epics like the Mahabharata and Ramayana, and Puranas, contain stories of strong and influential women.

Example: Characters like Sita, Draupadi, and Kunti serve as symbols of strength, sacrifice, wisdom etc.

Later Vedic Period

Bhakti Movement: Through their writings, they expressed a divine sadness while redefining love and finding solace in their relationship with God.

Example: Meera Bai and Akkamahadevi in Kannada are well known for their sheer lyrical intensity and concentrated emotional appeal.

Tamil Sangam Literature: The ancient Tamil Sangam literature includes the works of many talented women poets and provides insights into their wisdom, emotions, and societal observations.

Example: Avvaiyar, Nachiyar.

Shilappadikaram: The Tamil epic poem "Shilappadikaram" by Ilango Adigal portrays the life of the legendary Tamil woman Kannagi, highlighting the power of women's agency and the pursuit of justice.

Modern Period

Challenging Gender Norms: Women characters defy traditional gender roles and societal expectations.

Example: In "The God of Small Things" by Arundhati Roy, the character of Ammu rebels against societal norms and fights for her independence.

Diverse Roles and Professions: Indian modern literature showcases women in various roles and professions beyond their traditional domestic roles.

Example: In "A Life Apart" by Neel Mukherjee, the protagonist Ritwik works as a male prostitute, challenging gender stereotypes.

Thus women’s contribution has enriched the literary landscape, fostered social change, and provided a deeper understanding of the experiences, aspirations, and challenges faced by women in Indian society.