In 1975 the first five women Vedic Priests were ordained. At that time orthodox Hindus did not allow women to read the scriptures or become priests. The Arya Samaj has since produced several women priests of calibre. The first batch of women who became Vedic Priests were: Mrs C. Padarat, Mrs D. Sewpaul, Mrs G. Sukhnundan, Mrs D. Sukram and Mrs P. Nanackchand.