Smritiyon mein Stri-Dhan

Summary

Taking up the subject of women’s property rights in ancient India, this article surveys how the term strī‑dhana (literally ‘woman’s wealth’) is defined and regulated in various Smṛti texts. It begins by explaining the different categories of strī‑dhana – gifts received before marriage, bridal adornments, dowry, gifts from parents and husband, and earnings from personal skill. Drawing on Manu Smṛti, Yājñavalkya Smṛti and commentaries like the Mitākṣarā and Dayabhāga, the author analyses debates about whether a husband can use his wife’s wealth and whether daughters have independent rights in parental property. The paper notes that early texts primarily granted women control over personal gifts but limited their authority over family land. It highlights passages that allow widows and daughters to inherit in the absence of sons and points out later extensions of these rights. The author also examines how colonial administrators interpreted strī‑dhana under Anglo‑Hindu law, sometimes expanding women’s property rights. Throughout, the article contextualises legal provisions within social expectations about marriage, guardianship and women’s economic dependence. It compares strī‑dhana to women’s property rights in other ancient societies and considers its legacy in modern legislation such as the Hindu Succession Act. By tracing continuities and changes, the paper argues that the concept of strī‑dhana, despite its patriarchal framing, provided an early legal basis for women’s financial security and has informed contemporary struggles for gender equality.