UPSC Mains 2023 · GS I · Q11 · 15 marks · 250 words

What are the main features of Vedic society and religion? Do you think some of the features are still prevailing in Indian society?

हिन्दी में

वैदिक समाज और धर्म की मुख्य विशेषताएँ क्या हैं? क्या आप सोचते हैं कि उनमें से कुछ विशेषताएँ भारतीय समाज में अभी भी प्रचलित हैं?

How a topper answered it

Aryan Yadav152 wordsTheir whole copy

Opening · a date or context

The vedic period occured in India during 1500-500 BC being divided into 2 phases Early vedic (Rigvedic) & later vedic periods.

Body · points

Main Feautres of Vedic Society & Religion

Early Vedic

  1. Worshipped nature personified as gods ⇒ Indra, Agni, Varuna etc
  2. Fluid varna system was present
  3. Pastoral lifestyle was common
  4. Women were treated with dignity & respect

Later Vedic

  1. New gods like Bhrama, Vishnu etc. emerged
  2. Varna System become rigid
  3. Domination of Bhramin priests, complex rituals become prevalent
  4. Women's position eroded ⇒ couldn't participate in Sabhas
  5. Agricultural, settled lifestyle become prevalent

Feautres Still prevailing in Indian Society

  1. Hereditary caste system, especialy in rural areas
  2. Worship of gods like Vishnu, Bhrama remains part of Hinduism
  3. Respect for cattle is part of Hindu religion
  4. Agriculture is prevalent ⇒ 45% of workforce

Close · a summary

Hence Vedic period left deep imprint on Indian society & religion

How toppers approach this question, and more on its topic: open the question.

Source: UPSC, Civil Services (Main) Examination 2023, General Studies Paper I, Q11. The paper on upsc.gov.in. Themes and links to toppers’ answers are by UPSC Grade, not by UPSC.