Which social evil or custom was conspicuously absent from ancient Indian society and became more prominent only in later historical periods?

Introduction / Context:
Various social practices and evils developed gradually over the long span of Indian history. Some, like polygamy or certain forms of temple service, existed in ancient times, while others emerged or became widespread only in the medieval or early modern periods, often due to changing political and cultural influences. This question asks you to identify which specific social evil was conspicuously absent in ancient India and is more associated with later eras.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• The question concerns social evils or customs in ancient Indian society.
• Options include polygamy, sati system, Devadasi system, and purdah system.
• We need to pick the one that was not characteristic of ancient India.

Concept / Approach:
Evidence from ancient texts and inscriptions suggests that polygamy existed among royalty and certain higher classes. References to women dedicated to temples, which later evolved into the Devadasi system, also appear in ancient sources. The practice of sati is debated, but there are sporadic references in some ancient contexts. In contrast, the purdah system, involving strict veiling and seclusion of women, is generally considered to have become prominent only in the later medieval period, influenced partly by certain Islamic court customs and changing notions of honour. Therefore, purdah is the least characteristic of ancient Indian society.

Step-by-Step Solution:
Step 1: Recall that polygamy among kings and nobles is described in many ancient epics and texts, indicating its presence. Step 2: Note that forms of temple dedication of women existed in ancient times, laying the base for what later became the Devadasi system. Step 3: Recognise that sati, while not widespread, is occasionally referred to in early sources, suggesting it was at least known. Step 4: Consider the purdah system, which involves strict veiling and seclusion of women from public view. Step 5: Understand that purdah became significant only in later centuries, especially in some royal and aristocratic circles, and is not a defining feature of ancient society. Step 6: Therefore, identify the purdah system as the social evil conspicuously absent from ancient India.

Verification / Alternative check:
Social histories of India typically trace the rise of purdah to the medieval period, highlighting its association with the Delhi Sultanate and Mughal court practices, as well as with changing ideas of honour and security. Ancient Vedic and early classical texts, by contrast, depict women participating more openly in rituals and social life.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:
Polygamy clearly existed in ancient India, especially among rulers. Some form of temple dedication and sacred prostitution, linked to the later Devadasi system, is attested in inscriptions and literary sources. Sati had sporadic occurrences even if it was not yet common. Thus, these cannot be described as conspicuously absent.

Common Pitfalls:
Students sometimes treat all listed practices as equally ancient without considering their historical development. Distinguishing between practices with ancient roots and those shaped by later cultural influences is essential.

Final Answer:
The social evil conspicuously absent in ancient India was the purdah system (female seclusion and veiling).