The Position of Women in Hindu Civilisation, from Prehistoric Times to the Present Day c11.s1.23

c11.s1.23

the Purda system. Ajanta supplies further and more significant evidence to show that the Purda was altogether unknown in the Deccan at this time. We find queen Māyādevī seated in the open court without any veil, when astrologers are being consulted about the implications of her dream¹. The wise minister Vidhura Paṇḍita delivers his sermons to royal ladies, none of whom cares to veil her face in his presence². Both at Sanchi and Ajanta we come across mixed throngs of men and women moving together in streets³, and participating in worship at public temples (Plate II); women are, however, not to be seen wearing any veils. To show a veil round the face may be rather difficult for a sculptor, but not at all for a painter. If therefore we see even married women moving about in public without any Purda in Ajanta paintings, the conclusion is irresistible that it was hardly much in vogue even in the higher and fashionable sections of society.