“Mythology is a reminder that women have always been part of the narrative, even if their voices have been silenced or forgotten over time.”
~K Rogers
As you read these words, somewhere in the world, countless women are struggling against oppression and striving for equality. It is an ongoing battle that has spanned centuries, and it is far from over. In a patriarchal society, women have always been portrayed as feeble and servile. As we celebrate Women's Day, it is essential to reflect on the status of women in our society and the narratives that shape our understanding of their roles and contributions. Hindu mythology has been a subject of much debate and controversy when it comes to the portrayal of women. While some argue that it is regressive and demeaning, others point out that women are portrayed as strong and independent in the Upanishads, Sastras, and Puranas.
(Till date there are countless women around the world struggling against oppression and striving for equality of equal rights.)
The Vedic period held a predominantly positive view of women, and women were seen as the epitome of strength and resilience. While the texts are not explicitly focused on modern-day concepts of feminism, they do offer some insights into the role and status of women in ancient India. The Rigveda and Taittiriya Upanishad contain several passages highlighting women's importance and their relatively high social esteem and regard. The famous verse "Yatra naryastu pujyante ramante tatra devatah" proclaims that where women are honored, divinity blossoms. Similarly, "Matridevo bhava, Pitridevo bhava, Acharyadevo bhava" highlights the significance of mothers as divine beings. Yet another version of the Rigvedic verse states, "Yatra nariyastu poojyante, ramante tatra Devata," further emphasizing the idea that women are deserving of worship and their presence is associated with divinity.
(The Vedic period is often termed as the period of feminine glory and prestigious life. Women during those times enjoyed equal rights as men and participated in all spheres)
(Of the 407 Sages of Rigveda, 21 were women. Many significant hymns were in the Rigveda were by women)
To truly understand the position of women in Hinduism, one should delve into the Vedic period epics, the Ramayana, and the Mahabharata. Sita and Draupadi, the prominent female protagonists of the epics, have been the subject of numerous debates and discussions. Two decades into the twenty-first century, it is crucial for Indian society to break the myths that the seeds of patriarchy have sown in the later translations of the scriptures.
Goddess Sita is a shining example of strength, loyalty, and resilience. She is revered by millions of Hindus for her unwavering devotion to her husband Lord Rama and her steadfastness in the face of adversity. Her story, as told in the Ramayana, is a tale of love, sacrifice, and triumph over evil.
(Rama was exiled for fourteen years, and Sita accompanied him willingly, despite the many dangers they’d face. In the forest, Sita demonstratesd her strength and resilience, facing demons and wild animals with courage and determination.)
Similarly, Draupadi, the wife of the five Pandava brothers, is known for her fierce independence, intelligence, and bravery. She is a symbol of the power of women and the importance of standing up for oneself, even in the face of overwhelming opposition. Her story, as told in the Mahabharata, is a tale of courage, ardor, and unwavering determination. Both Sita and Draupadi have been interpreted in many ways throughout history, and their stories have been used to inspire and empower women across India and beyond. In this editorial, we will explore how Sita and Draupadi embody modern feminist ideals and how their actions can continue to inspire women even centuries after their stories were written.
(Draupadi was not content to be a passive wife and instead asserted her independence and intelligence at every turn. She was an accomplished archer, a skilled diplomat, and a fearless leader. She was not afraid to challenge authority, and her wit and intelligence often outshone those of the men around her.)
According to eminent mythologist Devdutt Pattanaik, Sita and Draupadi are two of the most potent female characters in Hindu mythology, and their stories continue to motivate and empower women. Pattanaik argues that these characters represent two different archetypes of femininity: Sita represents the ideal wife, while Draupadi represents the ideal woman.
Pattanaik writes, "Sita is the quintessential wife who suffers silently and endures all sorts of pain for the sake of her husband. Draupadi, on the other hand, is the woman who refuses to suffer in silence and chooses to take matters into her own hands." However, he also notes that both characters demonstrate immense strength and resilience in the face of adversity.
When we examine their stories more closely, we see that Sita and Draupadi are manifestations of the two primary paths that women take in life. Sita represents the traditional path of the wife and mother, while Draupadi represents the path of the independent and assertive woman. Despite their differences, both Sita and Draupadi are powerful symbols of femininity. They are a reminder that women have always played crucial roles in Indian society and that their contributions should be recognized and celebrated.
Draupadi and Sita have become increasingly relevant in modern-day discussions on the portrayal of women in Indian history. Some argue that Draupadi's story is a reflection of the patriarchal norms of the time, while others see it as a tale of feminist resistance. Similarly, some criticize Sita's willingness to undergo the trial by fire as a reflection of patriarchal practices, while others view it as a powerful example of sacrifice and devotion. However, it is important to view Draupadi and Sita's stories in the context of their time. The society in which they lived was inherently patriarchal, and their actions were shaped by the norms of their time. However, their stories have gradually developed into tales of perseverance, thus inspiring women all around the world and turning their characters into symbols of modern feminism. Unfortunately, these narratives are often overshadowed by the more orthodox interpretations that focus on a woman’s weaknesses and liabilities. However, it is up to us to break these stereotypes and celebrate the diversity and richness of our cultural heritage.
(Debates about Draupadi and Sita continue today. Some view Draupadi's story as a reflection of patriarchy, while others see it as a feminist tale. Similarly, some criticize Sita's willingness to undergo the trial by fire as patriarchal, while others admire her sacrifice and devotion.)
As we continue to strive for equality and justice for women around the world, we can draw inspiration from the stories of Sita and Draupadi. Their personalities are a powerful reminder of the power of women and the importance of standing up for oneself in the face of adversity. On this Women's Day, let us not let it slip away in a blur of bouquets, confectioneries, WhatsApp messages and rampant commercialisation. Let us celebrate womanhood in all its fervor and empower women to break free from the shackles of a society that tries to limit their sky. Only then can we create a truly inclusive society where women are treated with respect and equality.
- Shashwat Jha