Women's standing has always been a crucial measure of a society's moral and cultural strength. Shakti, the divine feminine power in control of creation, protection, and transformation, was traditionally thought to be represented by women in Indian tradition. Scriptures, epics, and philosophical writings from history show that women were valued, educated, and actively engaged in social and spiritual life.
However, women's status seems contradictory in the current Kaliyuga age. Despite having access to legal rights, employment, and education, women continue to experience societal prejudice, violence, and inequity. This begs the crucial question of whether society's treatment of women has improved or declined. This essay traces the journey of women from the ancient Yugas to modern times and evaluates if the respect originally afforded to women truly exists today.
