During the Early Vedic **, were respected and given a high status in society. They even attended the assemblies and participated in debates. The wife was the husband’ partner in all social and religious ceremonies. had the freedom to choose their husbands through the system of ‘ Swayamvara’. But during the Later Vedic , society became patriarchal as most prayers contained the to have a son. The position of deteriorated during the **. ***** were considered inferior to men and were denied education. Their freedom was curtailed. Polygamy began to be practiced. They were supposed to serve their families and were confined to the four walls of their houses.
