India’s Social Structure: A Cultural Insight
by Yuvi K - December 16, 2023
India’s Social Structure: A Cultural Insight
India is one of the most diverse countries, featuring a fascinating cultural landscape full of interesting customs and traditions. India is a very hierarchical country, and social structure in India is based on the system of castes and sub-castes. At the top of this hierarchy is the Brahmin (ब्राह्मण) caste, followed by the Kshatriyas (क्षत्रिय), Shudra (शूद्र) and Dalits or Chandal (चंडाल).
Varna System
The Varna system is the traditional form of social classification based on occupation, that defines the hereditary boundaries of the four major classes in Hindu society – the Brahmins (priests and scholars), the Kshatriya (rulers and warriors), the Vaishya (farmers, traders, merchants), and the Shudras (labourers). It is believed that this traditional social system was established by Brahma, the Hindu god of creation, and is still practised in some rural parts of India.
Caste System
The traditional caste system in India is based on the four Varna and has numerous jati (caste) and sub-castes under each Varna. This system is also known as the Varna-Jati system as each Varna comprises of a number of jatis. Every jati is associated with its traditional profession, such as farmers, priests, warriors, merchants and so on. These jatis were further divided into sub-castes and clans, which were traditionally interrelated and formed cohesive social networks based on marriage alliances and work divisions. Some of these jati are further classified into hierarchical order based on their status and prosperity.
Role of Religion
Religion has played a very important role in defining the social structure in India. Hinduism is the dominant religion in India and it follows the Varna system. It is believed that individuals are born into a certain jati based on their deeds in their previous life. However, individuals can also marry outside of their jati and convert to other religions as well, though such moves are not accepted in some parts of the country.
Changing roles
The Hindu Caste system has been undergoing a major transformation in the last few decades, especially with the advent of modern education and the spread of egalitarian values in Indian society. The traditional role of each caste has been challenged in recent times, with individuals from some of the lower castes now having access to education, better job opportunities and economic freedom. This has led to a significant change in the traditional social hierarchy in India, though in some parts of the country the caste system remains largely unchanged.
Conclusion
India’s social structure is very complex and is shaped by religion and culture. Though the caste system has undergone significant changes in the last few decades, it still plays a major role in defining the social hierarchy in many parts of the country.
