DPEP Gender Studies Malappuram (Revised) Kerala

Abstract

From Women of Kerala: Women of Kerala, in the historic past enjoyed to a large extent freedom to lead an independent life. During the Chera and Sangham period, we come across a galaxy of women, remarkable for their scholarship and culture. 'Chandrostavam", a poetic composition of 12th century; refers to women artistes like Mathu, remarkable for her musical talent and dexterity in playing veena. It is read that there were 15 women poets in the Durbar of sangham kings. Avaiyyar was a famous poetess or this period- The women of that period used to accompany their husbands to the battle fields for encouraging and inspiring their husbands. There was no purdha system prevailed.