History of Dharmashastra (Ancient and Mediaeval Religious and Civil Law in India) v6.c81.169

v6.c81.169

There were certain differences between Vedic sacrifices and vratas The promised reward of most sacrifices was heaven, while Purāṇas promised that most vratas would confer tangible benefits in this very life. Further, vratas could be performed by all, including śūdras, maidens, married women, widows, even prostitutes