Economic Life during the Epic Age

Agriculture-Agriculture, which continued to be the chief livelihood of people in epic age, had achieved remarkable development. As described in Mahabharata, the lands of Kosala, Vatsa, Matsaya etc. were very productive. Fields were irrigated and fertilisers was used to enhance the richness of land. The farmers had to pay 1/10th to 1/6th of their produce as taxes to the king.

Cattle Breeding-Next only to farming, cattle breeding was also one of the chief livelihood of the subjects. Horses and elephants were much coveted by the army. Cow was the most accepted animal which people tamed. Cattle breeding was thus one of the most important source of income for the populace.

Trade and Occupations-Trade and commerce prospered during the epic age. Merchants had coordinated themselves into associations. Among the primary occupations carpentry, pottery, chariot-making, jeweller-making, basket-making, goldsmithing, ploughing, bow and arrow manufacturing etc. were in high demand. High textured cotton, woolen and silken clothes were fashioned. Metal work had also amplified and enhanced. Most of the businessmen were city dwellers, but businessmen from far-off places also visited the cities for business dealings. On the whole people were contented and well-off and trade and commerce boomed.

Advancement of Science and Philosophy-Sizeable progress in Science and Philosophy was accomplished during this age. Medical Science had moved on so much that medicines were manufactured even for the animals. Geography and Astrology also followed in toe with Science and Philosophy. With regard to philosophy, the isms of Karma, Incarnation, Bhakti (devotion) etc. were critically outlined and advocated.