The Later Vedic Period, spanning from 1000 BC to 600 BC, marks a significant phase in Indian history. This era saw the expansion of Vedic culture into the fertile Ganga-Yamuna Doab, the rise of agriculture, and the solidification of socio-political structures. With advancements in iron technology and changes in religious practices, this period laid the foundation for the Mahajanapadas.
Expansion and Settlement
During the Later Vedic Period, some Vedic tribes migrated from the ‘Sapta Sindhu’ region to the upper Ganga Valley and other surrounding areas. This transition was largely driven by the use of iron tools, which facilitated large-scale clearing of forests and the establishment of permanent settlements. This period also witnessed the transition from a pastoral to an agrarian society.
Culture and Lifestyle: The Painted Grey Ware (PGW) Culture
The Later Vedic culture is associated with the Painted Grey Ware (PGW) culture, identified by earthen bowls and dishes made of painted grey pottery. PGW sites were widespread, stretching from the Himalayan foothills to the Malwa plateau and from Bahawalpur (Pakistan) to Kaushambi (Prayagraj). Archaeological findings, such as iron tools used for agriculture, provide valuable insights into this period’s technological advancements.
Political Organization and State Formation
- Rise of Janapadas- The term ‘Jana’ initially referred to a tribe or group of people in the Rigvedic period. However, in the Later Vedic age, settled agricultural communities formed Janapadas, meaning “where the Jana set foot.”
- Concept of Rashtra- The term ‘Rashtra’ emerged, though it did not yet signify a well-defined territorial state.
- Formation of Mahajanapadas- The coming together of tribes, such as the Kurus and Panchalas, led to the formation of larger political entities, eventually evolving into Mahajanapadas by the 6th century BCE.
- Decline of Popular Assemblies- The importance of popular assemblies diminished, with Sabha and Samiti becoming dominated by nobles and Brahmanas. Women were no longer allowed to participate.
- Position of the King- The king became more powerful, receiving voluntary tributes (Bali) from the people. Kings sought to legitimize their rule through elaborate rituals such as Rajasuya and Ashwamedha yajnas.
Society and Social Structure
- Varna System- Social hierarchy became rigid, with the Brahmanas, Kshatriyas, Vaishyas, and Shudras occupying fixed positions. The Brahmanas gained immense power due to the growing influence of rituals and sacrifices.
- Institution of Gotra- The concept of gotra emerged, promoting exogamy (marrying outside one’s lineage) over tribal endogamy.
- Ashramas- The four stages of life—Brahmacharya (student life), Grihastha (householder), Vanaprastha (hermit), and Sannyasa (ascetic life)—were conceptualized.
- Status of Women- The status of women declined, with increasing dominance of the father in the family and the prominence of primogeniture in princely families.
Religion and Philosophical Developments
- Elaborate Rituals- Sacrifices became more complex, reinforcing the dominance of the priestly class.
- Shifting Deities- Indra and Agni lost prominence, while Prajapati (the creator) gained supreme status. Rudra (Shiva) and Vishnu also rose in significance.
- Age of Upanishads- Philosophical thought gained traction, leading to the compilation of the Upanishads and the emergence of Vedic philosophical schools, including Samkhya, Vaishesika, Nyaya, Yoga, Mimamsa, and Vedanta.
- Reaction Against Rituals- A reaction against excessive ritualism and priestly dominance emerged, especially in Panchala and Videha, where early Upanishadic thought took shape.
Economic Changes and Urbanization
- Agriculture- Agriculture became the primary occupation, with the cultivation of rice (Vrihi), wheat, barley, and lentils. Iron tools, such as sickles and ploughshares, enhanced productivity.
- Animal Husbandry- Cattle rearing continued, but land gained importance as a primary source of wealth.
- Pottery and Crafts- The Later Vedic people used four types of pottery—Black and Red Ware (BRW), Black-slipped Ware, Painted Grey Ware (PGW), and Red Ware. Jewel-making, weaving, and leatherwork flourished.
- Medium of Exchange- While the barter system persisted, the term ‘Nishka’ is mentioned as a form of currency.
- Urbanization- The term “Nagar” (city) appears in post-Vedic texts, indicating the initial stages of urbanization.
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FAQs on the Later Vedic Period
Q1. What were the chief features of the Later Vedic Period?
The period witnessed social stratification, complex rituals, the expansion of agriculture, and the emergence of Janapadas.
Q2. What is the Later Vedic Period associated with?
It is linked with the composition of the Brahmanas, Aranyakas, and early Upanishads, marking a shift towards philosophical inquiry.
Q3. Who composed the Later Vedic texts?
The texts were composed by sages and scholars of the Brahmanical class between 1100 and 500 BCE.
Q4. Why is the Later Vedic Age called the Epic Age?
It is termed the Epic Age due to the composition of the Mahabharata and Ramayana, which reflect the socio-political and religious thoughts of the time.
