Women in Braj Bhakti Literature

Abstract

The Bhakti movement’s impact on Braj was marked by gender and caste disparities. While men actively participated in devotional practices, women, especially from lower castes, were largely absent due to their socio-economic roles. Lower-caste women’s labor-intensive responsibilities limited their engagement in religious activities, whereas higher-caste women had greater social mobility, enabling their participation. Despite the movement’s egalitarian messages, patriarchal structures and daily labor demands hindered broader female involvement. The literature of Braj reflects this imbalance, highlighting selective participation based on caste and social status. This paper explores the role and position of women in various religious sects, examining the reasons behind the limited number of women saints in Braj. By analyzing these dynamics, we can better understand the complex interplay between gender, caste, and religious participation in the region.