27

 The Rigveda, one of the oldest scriptures of ancient India, contains numerous hymns attributed to both male and female sages (rishis). Among the contributors, 27 women rishikas (female sages) are traditionally acknowledged for their compositions. These women were not just poets but also philosophers and spiritual visionaries. Here are the 27 prominent rishikas who contributed to the Rigveda:

1. Lopamudra – The wife of Sage Agastya, known for her hymn in Rigveda (1.179), expressing philosophical thoughts on love and the relationship between husband and wife.

2. Ghosha – The daughter of Sage Kakshivat, who composed two hymns (10.39 and 10.40) and is celebrated for her prayers seeking good health and a long life.

3. Apala – A sage known for her hymn (8.91), in which she prays for rejuvenation and healing, particularly to restore her beauty and health.

4. Vishvavara – A distinguished woman sage who composed a hymn (5.28) praising Agni, the sacred fire.

5. Romasha – A learned sage whose verses (1.126) are in praise of various Vedic deities.

6. Shashvati – A rishika whose hymns are noted for their spiritual depth.

7. Urvashi – An Apsara (celestial nymph) with a philosophical dialogue with King Pururavas, referenced in Rigveda (10.95).

8. Surya – A divine figure, representing the Sun’s daughter, who composed the hymn (10.85) associated with the Vedic marriage ceremony.

9. Yami – The sister of Yama, known for her dialogue hymn (10.10) that explores the relationship between siblings and cosmic principles.

10. Saswati – Her hymns primarily invoke divine blessings.

11. Nadhraksha – Her compositions praise natural elements and divine forces.

12. Aditi – Revered as the mother of the gods (Adityas), her hymns (primarily in Mandala 1) invoke her as a protective and nurturing force.

13. Indrani – The wife of Lord Indra, who composed hymns of praise and strength.

14. Saramā – A divine figure, often identified as Indra’s messenger, with a notable role in Vedic hymns.

15. Dakshina – Represented as the goddess of charity and gifts, she is praised in hymns for her nurturing nature.

16. Ratri – The goddess of night, who is the subject of a beautiful hymn (10.127) in praise of the serene night sky.

17. Shraddha – Representing faith and devotion, she is lauded in a hymn (10.151) emphasizing the importance of belief in spiritual pursuits.

18. Sarasvati – The river goddess and goddess of knowledge, frequently praised across several hymns.

19. Ila – A sacred figure connected to fertility and prosperity, she is often associated with rituals of abundance.

20. Bharati – Another form of Sarasvati, representing eloquence and divine speech.

21. Sarama – A divine hound of Indra, representing loyalty and perseverance.

22. Sita – The goddess of the furrow, symbolizing agricultural prosperity, praised in hymns for her fertility and nurturing essence.

23. Dadhiya – A sage who contributed to hymns invoking divine strength.

24. Bhavayavya – A woman rishi praised for her wisdom and devotion.

25. Juhu – Revered for her association with sacrificial rituals.

26. Vasukra’s Wife – Mentioned in hymns that celebrate family life and the role of women in Vedic society.

27. Paulomi – A sage with hymns expressing divine motherhood and nurturing aspects.

These 27 rishikas exemplify the spiritual and literary contributions of women in Vedic society. Their hymns cover themes of devotion, philosophy, health, prosperity, and cosmic principles, reflecting the profound wisdom they possessed.