WOODBURNE

The migration of the Aryans into India gave rise to a new social cleavage between the tall,
fair and cultured Aryans and the short, dark and primitive aborigines. It resulted in the vara
system which was based on colour.

Outside the four traditional varnas there was a fifth group known as the Panchamas. They
were of mixed origin and placed below the Shudras.

The caste system has persisted for so long because it gives functional stability. It makes
possible specialisation and division of labour. It also ensures that each occupation has new
recruits because birth decides the person’s occupation. The caste system is built on the
foundation of metempsychosis (Karma and Samsara).

PROBLEMS OF THE CASTE SYSTEM

1. Man made for caste and not caste for man

Caste is primarily concerned with the preservation of order in society and not with welfare of
society. It doesn’t allow for progress.
2. Subjugation of Personality and individual ability
The accident of birth determines one’s occupation, life style and status. The person has no
freedom to choose. Furthermore, a person’s worth depends on his origin and not the service
he provides to the community.

WEAKENING OF THE CASTE SYSTEM

1. Education

An educated person demands freedom of choice and equality. He will not submit to orthodox
rules and customs without questioning them. As a result, the spread of education has caused
weakening of the caste system.

2. Economic

Globalisation increased the competition that Indian industries face. As a result there is a
demand for broader economic opportunities and new jobs have been created that are not
caste-determined. For eg, a Brahaman would accept a job in the leather industry if it provided
him a good steady income.

3. Religious
The spread of Christianity has been important because it emphasized equality, fraternity and
the importance of education. This resulted in several conversion. A by-product of this was the
rekindling of reform movements within Hinduism which aims to uplift the lower castes.

4. Political

Many public leaders like Lala Lajpat Rai, Tagor, Gandhi etc. have called for an end to the
caste system. Educational opportunities have nurtured a group of politically active youth
from the lower castes. They represent the interests of the marginalised and aim to achieve
equality and socio-economic improvement. A good example is the non-Brahman party which
came into power in Madras Presidency.