Views of Swami Nishchalanand

... I do not want to see any change in the social structure of Hindu religion. Our scriptures command that women are not entitled to read the Vedas, and I am merely following the commandment ...

The women command many religious rights (for example) an important role to play in a yagya. On other  religious occasions too she plays an important role. We give her a very respectable position ... In every situation (the woman) lives under the guardianship of a man. That is why she needs no property.

The scriptures do not accept her independence .... Hindu religion (has) taught the world how to respect a woman. This is the religion which says that 'the gods abode there where the women are respected'. Hindu religion does not (see) her as a means of enjoyment. On the contrary, she is believed as the 'better half' (ardhangiri) of a man. Devdasis and the 'apsaras' are the part of religion. They have their work to do. It is of no use to cast any doubt on them.

(Source: The Inter Religious Dialogue, May 1999) (Courtesy: The Indian Currents, 8<4 November, 1999)