DIP: 18.02.48/20261102 
DOI: 10.25215/2455/110248 
Abstract
This article presents an in-depth study of the changing social and cultural status of women in Indian literature (English and Gujarati). It depicts the journey from women enjoying equality in ancient Vedic times to their medieval decline and their empowered recovery in the modern era. Literature reflects the evolution of female characters as a mirror of society. Indian English literature depicts heroines fighting for existence by getting freedom from traditional roles. The stream of female consciousness that started with Mirambai and Gangasati in Gujarati literature has developed through the writers of Govardhanram, Munshi and Gandhi era. In the modern and post-modern era, writers like Kundanika Kapadia have broken the bonds of marriage and patriarchy and given voice to the inner world and freedom of women. Thus, literature has played a significant role in establishing women from a merely ‘tolerant’ character to an ‘independent’ and ‘capable’ individual, indicating a move from a patriarchal mindset towards empowerment.
The author(s) appreciates all those who participated in the study and helped to facilitate the research process. 
The author(s) declared no conflict of interest. 
ISSN 2455-670X