The Position of Women in Hindu Civilisation, from Prehistoric Times to the Present Day c15.s1.82

c15.s1.82

The *lahaṅgā*, which is so common in Rajputana and northern India at present, was altogether unknown in the Hindu period. It is not referred to in literature, nor seen in paintings and sculptures of the Hindu period. It however became quite common after a few centuries of Muslim rule. In northern India it even became an indispensable constituent of the traditional bridal dress. In south India the Muslim influence was less felt and so the *lahaṅgā* or *parakara* became common only among small girls. Grown up women did not take to it.