Modesty is essential for woman. Overstepping the limits of modesty is against her innate dharma; crossing its limits brings about many calamities, including destroying the very glory of womanhood. Without modesty, woman is devoid of beauty and culture. Absence of modesty makes the life of a woman, however rich in other accomplishments, a vacuum. Modesty lifts her to the heights of sublime holiness. Modesty is a blend of these qualities - humility, purity of thought and manners, meekness, surrender to high ideals, sensitivity and sweetness of temper. It is the most invaluable of all jewels for women. Through her innate sense of propriety, a modest woman will ever keep within limits. She becomes automatically aware which behaviour is proper and which is not. Modesty is the true test of a woman’s grandeur. A modest woman will stick only to virtuous deeds and behavior, and will wield authority in the home and outside, in the community as well as in the world.

- Dharma Vahini, Ch 4.