In early Vedic and Upanishadic tradition, who among the following women was a Brahmavadini, a woman seeker of Brahman, who is specifically known for composing some hymns of the Vedas?

Introduction / Context:
This question highlights the important role of women in early Indian religious and philosophical literature. The term Brahmavadini refers to a woman who is a seeker and knower of Brahman, the ultimate reality. Some such women are explicitly mentioned in the Vedic and Upanishadic texts. The question asks which of the listed women was not only a Brahmavadini but also credited with composing hymns of the Vedas, which is a specific and important contribution.

Given Data / Assumptions:
- The focus is on early Vedic or Upanishadic women who were spiritual seekers and teachers.
- The term Brahmavadini indicates a woman devoted to the pursuit of Brahman and knowledge.
- The options list several famous female figures: Gargi, Lopamudra, Savitri, Leelavati and Maitreyi.
- The question asks specifically for one who composed hymns of the Vedas, not just debated or discussed philosophy.

Concept / Approach:
Traditional sources mention several learned women in ancient India. Gargi and Maitreyi are well known for their philosophical debates in the Upanishads, particularly in King Janaka s court and in dialogues with Yajnavalkya. Lopamudra, the wife of sage Agastya, is specifically associated with hymns in the Rigveda. She is credited with composing verses expressing both spiritual and personal concerns. The correct approach is to recall which of these names is directly linked with Vedic hymn composition, rather than only with philosophical discussion.

Step-by-Step Solution:
Step 1: Recall that Gargi Vachaknavi appears in the Brihadaranyaka Upanishad as a debater who questions Yajnavalkya about the nature of reality. Step 2: Remember that Maitreyi is also mentioned in the Brihadaranyaka Upanishad in profound dialogues with Yajnavalkya on immortality and the Self. Step 3: Recognise that Lopamudra is traditionally known as the wife of sage Agastya and is credited with composing hymns of the Rigveda, often expressing both devotion and the demands of household life. Step 4: Note that Savitri is a powerful mythological figure in later literature and Leelavati is associated with mathematical or literary traditions, not directly with Vedic hymn composition. Step 5: Based on this, identify Lopamudra as the Brahmavadini who composed Vedic hymns and select her as the correct answer.

Verification / Alternative check:
To verify, you can think of how each of these names appears in standard exam guides. Gargi and Maitreyi are almost always described as women philosophers debating subtle questions in the Upanishads. Lopamudra, on the other hand, is typically mentioned in lists of female rishis or seers credited with Rigvedic hymns. Savitri and Leelavati are rarely, if ever, listed among Vedic hymn composers. This pattern across multiple sources confirms that Lopamudra is the correct choice for this particular question.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:
Gargi Vachaknavi: A celebrated woman philosopher and Brahmavadini in the Upanishads, known for her debates, but not specifically credited with composing Vedic hymns in the way Lopamudra is.
Savitri: A powerful figure in later stories symbolising devotion and determination, but not traditionally listed as a Vedic hymn composer.
Leelavati: Associated with literary or mathematical traditions in later periods, not with the Rigveda or Vedic hymn composition.
Maitreyi: Like Gargi, she is famous as a philosopher in the Upanishads, conversing with Yajnavalkya, but not directly credited as the composer of Rigvedic hymns.

Common Pitfalls:
Students often confuse different learned women of ancient India because their stories are all inspiring and are sometimes presented together. This can lead to guessing Gargi or Maitreyi simply because they are well known as Brahmavadinis. The key is to focus on the specific wording of the question, which emphasises composing hymns of the Vedas. When you separate philosophical debate from hymn composition, Lopamudra clearly stands out as the correct answer.

Final Answer:
The Brahmavadini who is specifically known for composing some hymns of the Vedas is Lopamudra.