A: Irawati Karve (1905-1970) was a pioneering Indian sociologist, anthropologist, educationist, and writer. She is considered one of the most important social scientists of 20th century India.
Q: What is Irawati Karve known for?
A: Karve is known for her groundbreaking work in kinship studies, particularly her analysis of kinship systems in India. She also made significant contributions to the study of caste, gender, and Indian mythology.
Q: What are some of her major works?
A: Some of her most important works include Kinship Organization in India (1953), Hindu Society: An Interpretation (1961), and Yuganta: The End of an Epoch (1968).
Q: What awards did she receive?
A: Karve was the recipient of several prestigious awards, including the Padma Bhushan and the Sahitya Akademi Award.
Q: What is the significance of Irawati Karve's work?
A: Karve's work is significant for several reasons:
Pioneering female scholar: She was one of the first Indian women to achieve prominence in the field of social sciences, paving the way for future generations of female scholars.
Interdisciplinary approach: Karve's work was interdisciplinary, drawing on anthropology, sociology, history, and linguistics to provide a holistic understanding of Indian society.
Focus on kinship: Her in-depth analysis of kinship systems in India remains a cornerstone of anthropological studies in the country.
Insights into Indian society: Her work provided valuable insights into the complexities of caste, gender, and family in India.
Reinterpretation of mythology: Her book Yuganta offered a unique interpretation of the Mahabharata, challenging traditional views and sparking debate.
In conclusion, Irawati Karve was a trailblazing scholar whose work has had a lasting impact on the field of social sciences in India. Her contributions to the understanding of kinship, caste, gender, and mythology continue to be relevant and influential today.
Share:
Get a call back
Fill the below form to get free counselling for UPSC Civil Services exam preparation
