1. Ancient Vedic Origins: The "Sacred" and the "Guilt"

In the earliest Vedic period, menstruation was viewed with awe. Major myths like The Myth of Indra explain menstrual flow as a way women shared Indra’s guilt in exchange for fertility blessings.

Many agricultural communities also linked menstruation to Earth's fertility. Events like Ambubachi Mela in Assam celebrate the Earth’s regenerative cycle during monsoons.

2. Ayurveda: The Medical Perspective

Ayurveda viewed menstruation (Rajah) as a vital cleansing process. Guidelines like Rajaswala Paricharya recommended rest and light diet to protect women’s health during this delicate time.

The cycle was seen as a natural rhythm essential for reproductive health, with metaphors like a closing lotus flower used to describe the uterus.

3. The Shift to "Ashaucha" (Ritual Impurity)

Later texts, such as Manusmriti, introduced Ashaucha—temporary ritual impurity. This led to restrictions in kitchens, temples, and social gatherings.

Over time, the original health-focused "rest" transformed into enforced isolation, while caste and purity concepts further entrenched taboos.

4. Modern Transitions