Nivedita Raina

1163

VARNA AND CASTE by M.N Srinivas

________________________________________________________________

M.N. Srinivas, an extraordinary sociologist and anthropologist, stands as a towering figure

in the field of Indian social sciences. Born in 1916 in a small village in South India, Srinivas
emerged as a trailblazer, reshaping the study of Indian society and culture through his
insightful observations and groundbreaking theories. With his penetrating intellect and
unwavering commitment to empirical research, Srinivas revolutionized our understanding
of social stratification, caste dynamics, and rural-urban relations in India. His contributions
not only challenged prevailing stereotypes and misconceptions but also paved the way for
a more nuanced and comprehensive understanding of the complexities inherent in Indian
society. Through his seminal works, Srinivas not only left an indelible mark on academia
but also played an instrumental role in shaping public discourse and policy interventions,
thereby leaving an enduring legacy as a scholar, intellectual, and advocate for social
justice

The essay delves into the intricate and often misunderstood relationship between the
varna scheme and the caste system in India. It begins by exploring the historical context
and the emergence of the four varnas: Brahmins, Kshatriyas, Vaishyas, and Shudras. The
author argues that the varna scheme, which initially aimed to provide a simplistic
categorization of society, has ultimately distorted the true nature of the caste system.
It is acknowledged that the varna scheme has led to a misconception of caste mobility,
often expressed in terms of varna rather than the local caste dynamics. This is due to the
fact that each caste possesses its unique name, customs, and traditions within a specific
local area, making it challenging for individuals or families to claim affiliation with a higher
local caste. However, a local caste can easily adopt the names of Brahmin, Kshatriya, or
Vaishya, albeit possibly facing opposition. In such cases, newcomers may differentiate
themselves from the local higher castes by using suitable prefixes or qualifiers. For
example, the Bedas of Mysore would find it impossible to identify themselves as
Okkaligas (Peasants) or Kurubas (Shepherds), but could adopt the name of Valmiki
Brahmins. Similarly, the Smiths of South India changed their names to Vishvakarma
Brahmins in pre-British times. This trend was further encouraged during the British
colonial era when low castes changed their names during periodic census enumerations to
improve their social standing within the hierarchy.
The essay highlights the limitations of the varna scheme, pointing out that it fails to
encompass the diversity and complexity of caste divisions prevalent across different
regions of India. The author, M.N. Srinivas, emphasizes that even during Vedic times,
there were occupational groups that did not fit neatly into the varna classification. Today,
there are hundreds of caste groups within each linguistic region, further illustrating the
inadequacy of the varna scheme to capture the reality of caste.
One of the significant shortcomings of the varna scheme is its exclusion of the
Untouchables, who are an integral part of Indian society despite being denied privileges
enjoyed by higher castes. The essay argues that the varna classification, particularly the
Shudra category, lacks sociological utility due to the vast diversity within it. From rich and
Sanskritized groups to tribes with marginal assimilation into Hindu society, the Shudra
category spans a wide cultural and structural spectrum, rendering its classification within
the varna scheme limited in its accuracy.

Furthermore, the dynamic nature of caste mobility is structurally visible, noting that
certain castes have successfully risen in the hierarchy by acquiring economic and political
power and subsequently claiming higher varna status. Discussions like ‘the discrepancies
between the ritual and economic or political positions of castes’ also need to be focussed
on. They help in highlighting instances where influential members of lower castes may
hold power over higher caste individuals in specific contexts.
In the essay the lack of clarity and nebulousness in the caste hierarchy, particularly in the
middle regions, leading to endless debates on mutual ritual rank could be sensed. Author
highlights the role of customs, occupation, dietary practices, and social customs in
determining a caste's position in the hierarchy. He also points out that the hierarchy may
vary from village to village, further complicating the understanding of caste dynamics.
The critical evaluation of the varna scheme's influence on the understanding of the caste
system. While the varna scheme has provided a simplistic and uniform framework that
people can grasp, it has distorted the true nature of caste divisions and the complexities
involved. There needs to be a deeper understanding of the caste system beyond the varna
model, emphasizing the importance of examining caste dynamics at the local level. By
doing so, one can gain a more accurate and nuanced comprehension of the intricacies of
caste in Indian society.
Overall, the essay provides a thought-provoking analysis of the varna scheme and its
impact on the perception and understanding of the caste system. It prompts readers to
critically reflect on the limitations of the varna model and encourages a more
comprehensive exploration of the intricate social, cultural, and historical factors that
shape caste divisions in India.