examine the economic activities of the early-vedic people
Answers
Vedic culture was primarily village centric. Village was the yardstick for Civilization and culture. The AryanS had preference for village life setting aside the luxurious Comforts of urbanization. So naturally the rural economy was the key factor for maintaining proper fiscal standard. And the base of rural economy was agriculture and animal husbandry. In addition craft and Technology along with trade activities said major contribution for early Vedic economic system. In the early vedic age, economy was agro-pastoral in character. In means agriculture along with animal husbandry played equally important role in strengthening the economic standard of the people. Cattle-rearing was an important occupation and the cow was treated by the Aryans with veneration and respect as the source of wealth and economic prosperity. Gauda and Gopa was in charge of daily pasture-feeding of cows, buffaloes, sheep etc. the Aryans had also domesticated other animal like horse, dog, donkeys, goat etc. the animals specially stamped, by their owners for their identity among large herds of cattle. The Vedic Aryans were not indifferent to the other branches of economic growth that is craft and Technology. In fact, they had exhibited great expertise in woodwork, Metallurgy, earthenware and tannery. Chariots, cars and boats were the chief products for carpenters. Metal-smiths used to prepare different types of ornaments and weapons. The waver community was in charge of spinning and weaving. Special class of artisans where there for preparing leather goods, mat-stitching and horn-works. Vedic literature affirms the existence of physicians who had the knowledge for preparing medicines from various herbal plants. Trade and Commerce constituted important features of early Vedic economy where equal importance was attached to both internal and external trade. We come across special prayers in Rig Veda to achieve Fortune through Maritime activities. pani as a specific group of Merchants controlled and regulated business activities. Car was used as an important unit of exchange and Mana was the medium of weight. The vedic description related to sea voyages and trade activities of the Aryans are the evidence of their commercial profession.