In the basin of Ganga and Yamuna rivers, mystics and sophists used to wonder to spread their own faiths and fables about salvation. The Society was infected by pessimism due to never ending class inter - fights, epidemics, social, economic and political uncertainties. The efforts to develop an organized society had been engaging the intellectuals and chieftains. The frustration among the veracious people was commanding them to relinquish normal life for asceticism.

 On the other hand the increasing population was striving for more liberalization in social values and better and effective mode of governance. It was a very peculiar juncture in the history of contemporary society.  The increased prosperity led to increased activities in trade and commerce. But in general there was lack of enthusiasm, at least in poor citizens.

 Old social values and customs were undergoing transformation to suit the changed social needs and order. However there was no replacement at hand of the old ones as new ones were still evolving. Remnants of the sacrificial cult were still persisting particularly in royal and affluent circles. Priests who were known for meticulous performance and conduction of sacrificial ceremonies were not only enormously rich but were held in high esteem. Famous sacrificial ceremonies were Rajasuya Yagya (Royal consecration) and Vajapeya Yagya (Drink of strength) and on the top of the list was Ashvamedha Yagya (Horse- sacrifice).

 To perform an Ashvamedha Yagya was the most cherished dream of every mighty king of those days . But the ill effects of these  sacrifices on interstate relations  had started  to   take their toll, that too in an alarming proportion. The philosophers and saints were therefore openly criticizing this sacrifice cult. There was drive to forge public opinion and mass movement against these sacrifices. As a result the cult was losing its popularity and disciples. Gradually the practice of yoga and idol worship was gaining strong and firm ground against sacrifice as a way to please the gods.

 Now scholarly Brahmins were performing sacrifices only clandestinely for some royal families. Even these were performed at places out of the sight of general public.  Although the Society was becoming less orthodox but there was hardly any decline in superstition. The main reason of this was lack of education and mass awareness. Therefore orthodox Brahmins and Vedic saints had become rivals in the religious faith of the public. 

Somadeva’s spiritual and religious psychology  was therefore very open. His ancestors had not at any point of time believed in orthodox rites, he therefore had not been brought up with them. Asceticism and  monkshood were not felt attractive to him as he belonged to one of a more permissive society, and  had no rigid dogmas . He was curious, observant and intelligent by nature. He had a natural thirst and grasp for knowledge. Even as a child he was observing the changing  trends in religion with an alert and suspicious mind.