Talk:Types of Conventional Hindu Families

By Vishal Agarwal

Even in the early 11th century, the Muslim traveler Alberuni observed a clear distinction between Hindu and Muslim practices. He noted that Hindu men invariably consulted their wives before making major decisions, whereas the Arabs did not.

In families where the husband was the sole income earner, he was expected to hand over his earnings to his wife, who enjoyed considerable freedom in deciding how to use them. In wealthy households, wives often managed family philanthropy and social patronage activities as well.

Traditionally, the expectation has been that men take responsibility for activities outside the home, while women lead the activities within the household, usually without interference from the men.

However, with the spread of modern lifestyles and increasing participation of women in the workforce, many women have become primary income earners in their families. As a result, this traditional equation has been undergoing significant change.