Who were the rishis and rishikas?

Rishis and Rishikas were sages and scholars in ancient India who composed the hymns of the Vedas. The rishis were men, and rishikas were women, both revered for their spiritual knowledge and insight. They lived simple lives, meditating and sharing their wisdom with others. Their teachings were about understanding nature, society, and the universe. These sages often led discussions on moral values, duties, and the meaning of life. Some well-known rishikas, like Lopamudra and Gargi, made significant contributions to Vedic literature, showing the equal role of women in spiritual and intellectual pursuits.

This question related to Chapter 7 Social Science Class 6th NCERT.
From the Chapter 7. India’s Cultural Roots.
Give answer according to your understanding.