Patriarchy, Reform, and Resistance: A Historical Analysis of Women’s Position in Indian Society
Nusratuel Islam Itoo
Lecturer in History, Govt Degree College Bani Kathua, Jammu and Kashmir, India
This article critically examines the evolving status of women in India, tracing its trajectory from the Vedic period to the contemporary era. Drawing upon historical, sociological, and policy-based perspectives, it explores how cultural, religious, economic, and political forces have shaped women's roles and rights across centuries. The analysis highlights how women, once celebrated in Vedic hymns and granted relative autonomy, gradually faced increasing subjugation through the codification of patriarchal norms, especially during the post-Vedic and Puranic periods. Buddhism briefly offered egalitarian ideals, yet later interpretations reinstated male dominance. The arrival of Muslim rule introduced new constraints, though elite women retained influence. Colonial reforms, nationalist movements, and post-independence policies progressively challenged entrenched inequalities. The study underscores the significance of state-led initiatives, from welfare to empowerment approaches reflected in successive Five-Year Plans, and the rise of grassroots feminist activism. Despite legislative advances and improved access to education, health, and employment, deeply rooted patriarchal attitudes and systemic discrimination continue to hinder full gender parity.
Keywords: Women’s status, gender inequality, Indian history, patriarchy, empowerment
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