Brahmavadini

In Hindu philosophy, Brahmavadini, are women who strive for the highest philosophical knowledge of Brahman, that is, those who strive for greater universal consciousness. This is opposed to a Sadyovadhu, who is normally a sage's wife, and dedicated to domesticity and the welfare of her family.

These women seers typically began studying the Vedas at a young age following a spiritual ceremony. Both the Mahābhārata and Rāmāyaṇa depict brahmavādinīs fulfilling both religious and domestic obligations with spiritual strength and physical capability.

Notable Brahmavadini Notable Brahmavadini include: Vak Ambhrini, Ila, Lopamudra, Vishwawara, Sikta, Ghosha, Gargi Vachaknavi, and Maitreyi. Figures like Maitreyi and Ghosha are highlighted in the Mahābhārata as respected women of saintly intellect who also excelled in domestic life. A hymn in the Rigveda is attributed to her.

Two suktas (hymns) of the tenth Mandala (book) of Rigveda, 39 and 40, each containing 14 verses, have been attributed to Ghosha. The first hymn praises the Ashvins while the second hymn is a personal wish expressing her intimate feelings and desires for married life.