The correct option is (a).
Explanation
The transition from the Rig Vedic period to the Later Vedic period witnessed a significant decline in the social status of women. While the early Vedic society was relatively egalitarian regarding gender, the Later Vedic society became increasingly patriarchal, leading to the withdrawal of various social and religious rights previously enjoyed by women.
Statement-wise Analysis:
- Statement 1 is Correct: In the Later Vedic texts, the status of women deteriorated to the extent that they were often equated with the lower strata of the social hierarchy. For instance, the Satapatha Brahmana mentions that a woman, a Shudra, and a dog are untruth. The Aitareya Brahmana describes a daughter as a source of misery, while a son is considered the savior of the family. This reflects their grouping with Shudras in terms of ritual purity and social standing.
- Statement 2 is Incorrect: During the Rig Vedic period, women had access to education and could study the Vedas; some, like Gargi and Maitreyi, were scholars (though they appear in Upanishadic contexts, they represent the fading tradition or exceptions). However, in the Later Vedic period, the Upanayana (sacred thread ceremony) for women was generally discontinued. Consequently, they were denied the right to study the Vedas and recite the Gayatri Mantra, a privilege that became restricted to male members of the upper three varnas.
Key Takeaway:
The Later Vedic period is characterized by the loss of the Upanayana ceremony for women, their exclusion from Vedic studies, and a general decline in status where they were often socially and ritually categorized alongside Shudras.