Ancient Indian Society

Streedhan literally means "woman’s wealth." It referred to the property, gifts, and wealth that a woman received during her lifetime, especially at the time of her marriage. According to ancient texts like the \textit{Manusmriti}, Streedhan was the woman’s personal property, which she had full rights over and which could not be taken away even by her husband or in-laws.
Streedhan typically included:
- Gifts of jewelry, gold, silver, and clothes given to the bride by her parents, relatives, and husband’s family.
- Land, money, cattle, or movable property received as presents at the time of marriage or other ceremonies.
- Gifts received by a woman at the time of birth of her children, festivals, or family rituals.
The importance of Streedhan lies in the fact that it provided women with financial independence and security in a patriarchal society. Unlike dowry (which was often controlled by the husband’s family), Streedhan legally remained the woman’s own property. It ensured her dignity and acted as a safeguard during times of widowhood or financial crisis.

The Varna system was the social classification that emerged in ancient India during the Vedic period. It was a way of organizing society into different groups based on duties (\textit{dharma}), professions, and responsibilities. The system was originally not rigid and was based more on qualities and work rather than birth, but later it became hereditary and gave rise to the caste system.
According to the Varna system, society was divided into four broad groups:
1. Brahmins:
They were priests, teachers, and scholars responsible for performing religious rituals, preserving sacred knowledge, and guiding society in spiritual and moral matters. They held the highest status in society.
2. Kshatriyas:
They were warriors and rulers who protected the land and governed the people. Their duty was to defend the country and uphold justice.
3. Vaishyas:
They were traders, farmers, and artisans engaged in economic activities. Their contribution was vital for agriculture, trade, and commerce.
4. Shudras:
They were laborers and service providers. Their main role was to assist the other three varnas by performing various tasks and services.
In its ideal form, the Varna system was meant to maintain social harmony and division of labor. However, over time, it became rigid and hierarchical, which led to social discrimination and inequality.

Step 1: Sources of authority.
The Dharmasutras and Dharmashastras are ancient Hindu legal and religious texts. They prescribed rules of conduct, duties, and social norms, including the institution of marriage.
Step 2: The eight forms of marriage.
The texts recognise eight types of marriage:
1. Brahma Vivaha
2. Daiva Vivaha
3. Arsha Vivaha
4. Prajapatya Vivaha
5. Gandharva Vivaha
6. Asura Vivaha
7. Rakshasa Vivaha
8. Paisacha Vivaha
Step 3: Conclusion.
Thus, according to Dharmasutras and Dharmashastras, there were eight forms of marriage.

Step 1: Background of Sangam society.
Sangam literature provides valuable information about the social and economic structure of early Tamil society. Different groups were identified by their occupation and status.
Step 2: Meaning of Vellalar.
The term “Vellalar” referred to wealthy and influential large landowners who controlled agricultural production and enjoyed high social status in Sangam society. They were distinct from ordinary peasants and laborers.
Step 3: Conclusion.
Therefore, in Tamil Sangam literature, Vellalar were identified as large landowners.