INDIAN FEMINISM FROM A VEDIC LENS: A CASE STUDY OF GARGI-YAGNAVALKYA VERBAL DUEL

Abstract

Feminism has come of age and its ramifications are being felt across the globe spatially and temporally. Appreciation of feminism in India mandates an understanding of the historical landscape in which it bloomed. To drive home this assertion, the present study seeks to underpin the logical superiority of the women against the men in the Vedic times, notwithstanding the patriarchal fabric of the ancient society. Whereas the role of women had been confined to child-rearing and household activities, their appearance in the public space was starkly limited owing to a number of reasons – mental and physical impunity, being one of them. Specifically, following a case study analysis, the present study presents an excerpt from the ancient text, Bṛhadaraṇyaka Upaniṣhad, which showcases the verbal duel between the two stalwarts, Gargi and Yagnavalkya. In the contestation between the two sages, the question of the existence and interpretation of the Brahman was being debated upon at length. Interpretations from the Sanskrit shlokas highlight the fact that women had an upper hand in those times as well. Brian Black in his book, The Character of the Self in Ancient India, writes about how Gargi was proved to be strongest opponent for Yagnavalkya than any other male philosophers, present to that public debate. The case study findings are extended to the contemporary Indian feminist dialogues that underscore the fact that the females are empowered to carve out their niche despite being a part of the male-dominated society. The study concludes with pointers for further research.