Q. The accounts of foreign travellers like Domingo Paes and Niccolò de’ Conti provide insight into the social structure of Vijayanagar. In this context, consider the following aspects of social life:
1.The system of Devadasis was prevalent, where women dedicated to temple service were often well-versed in arts and held a relatively high social status.
2.The practice of Sati (widow immolation) was explicitly observed by several foreign visitors, particularly among the nobility.
3.Women generally enjoyed high status and were formally appointed to administrative positions, including accounting, wrestling, and royal security guard duty.
How many of the statements given above are correct?
Answer: C
Notes:
Explanation:
- Statement 1: Correct. The Devadasi system was well-established, and these women contributed significantly to the cultural life of the empire.
- Statement 2: Correct. Foreign accounts, especially those of Nuniz, mention the practice of Sati, though primarily restricted to the elite and royal families.
- Statement 3: Correct. Paes mentions women holding high administrative posts, including being employed in the royal palace for record-keeping and serving as bodyguards.
