Vedic Society and its Continuity

Social Changes: Rigvedic Period vs. Later Vedic Period

Basis

Rigvedic Period (Early Vedic)

Later Vedic Period

Example / Description

Varna System

Flexible social structure based on occupation.

The Varna system became formal and rigid (birth-based).

Example: The 'Purusha Sukta' in the Later Vedic period describes the origin of the four Varnas.

Status of Women

Women enjoyed significant freedom and the right to education.

The status of women declined; patriarchal norms became deep-rooted.

Rigvedic: Freedom to choose a spouse. Later: Emergence of practices like child marriage.

Role of ....