Women in Vijayanagar :
The women unlike in western countries during that period, in Vijayanagar, were well educated and were not deprived of any social status. They even enjoyed their status politically. Women were allowed to learn archery, artillery, wrestling and astrology to name a few. Not to mention fine arts and music. Some of the women were also included in Security sevices and as body guards as well. Devadasi system that prevailed in the state was also duly respected. Widows ran hotels in their houses and were enabled to lead an independent life.
There is an instance of Gangambika, wife of Veera kamapna, early ruler of the kingdom, writing Veera kamapana charitha and Madhura Vijayam. This she completed when she accompanied Kampana to War field. It is said that she had also performed Sahasravadhana.
Interesting to note the status of women in other parts of the World. In ancient Rome no women could exercise any civil or public office and could not act as curator, tutor and surety and were not allowed to make any will or contract.
Till 1928 women of England had no voting rights and they had to fight for it. United States has witnessed women fighting for their rights during 18th century. Christians dont even believe that women is also divine ! Mary Ann Evans (An english Poetess) had to change her name to get her works published. The world know her by name George Eliot, a male name. Wife of Mohammad Pygamber, Khadija was looking after her father`s business and was a well educated women of her times. She had to wear a Burkha and sit at home after her marriage to Pygamber.
Can such Civilizations match the Empire of vijayanagar?
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