A History of Agriculture in India v1.c37.s8: Society
A History of Agriculture in India v1.c37.s8
- Language
- English
Society
v1.c37.s8.1
'The independent landholder, artisan or trader commanded greater esteem in society than officials of the State, states Sastri. In the enjoyment of the social amenities, there was a wide gap between the wealthy section of the nobles and the rest of the population. In spite of their poverty the brahmanas commanded the goodwill of the kings and respect of the people by their character and learning. Women enjoyed freedom in their movements and were held in great honour. Often a courtesan was a formidable rival to the wedded wife in the families of kings and nobles.
v1.c37.s8.2
'A select body of troops who shared a meal with the king at the time of his accession and were sworn to defend him with their lives on all occasions were known by different names in different courts—*Sahavasis* under the Chalukyas, *Velaikkarar* under the Cholas, *Garudas* under the Hoysalas, and *Apattudavigal* under the Pandyas.'