Do you think that the caste system is changing in Indian rural society in recent times? Discuss with suitable examples.
Do you think that the caste system is changing in Indian rural society in recent times? Discuss with suitable examples.
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Recent changes in the caste system in Indian rural society:-
When the characteristics of the caste system are reviewed, it is considered as a rigid, immobile and closed system. However, various surveys and research works have shown that this system was never a completely static system; rather, the seeds of its change were dormant from the beginning, and as time passed, it developed. That is, the change has gradually gained its scope. The factors that indicate the change in the caste system in Indian rural society are -
1. Religious explanation:-
One of the characteristics of the caste system is the religious concept attached to it. At present, such a concept no longer exists. In fact, today's scientific minded people have not found any logical explanation for this statement. The origin of Brahmins from the mouth of Brahma or Shudras from the feet - such religious beliefs are no longer accepted in that form even in rural society.
2. In terms of food habits: -
The issue of dietary restrictions is now almost non-existent. The distinction between cooked and raw food has also disappeared. In rural society, except for the very orthodox Brahmins, everyone else consumes non-vegetarian food such as onions, garlic, fish, meat, eggs, etc. There is also very difficult evidence of self-cultivation. Food habits are now dependent on personal taste and economic capacity.
3. In terms of occupation: -
Currently, the issue of a person's occupation is not controlled by caste. In reality, in rural societies, although Brahmins still have a monopoly on worship, many Brahmins are also involved in other professions. Moreover, the rule of the Kshatriyas or the business and commerce of the Vaishyas - these are no longer of much importance in Indian rural societies.
4. In the case of marriage: -
Caste is no longer an endogamous group in that sense. Although this issue is given importance in some traditional Hindu families today, in most cases in rural society it is not given importance while selecting the bride and groom. Anuloma and Pratiloma marriages were prevalent long ago, but today in the romantic marriage system of Indian rural society, the issue of marriage within the same caste is quite neglected. Moreover, the prohibition of swagotra and swapinda marriages is almost not accepted today.
5. In the case of inequality:-
The way in which Brahmins, who were at the highest level in the caste system, used to get various social privileges or how people from lower classes were ignored, has changed drastically today. In rural society, even if some people bow down to Brahmins, in most cases that behavior is not followed. Again, forcibly pushing someone away because they are Shudras is not seen very often anymore. Such behavior, which is unreasonable and against the principle of equality, is now a punishable offense in the eyes of the law.
6. In the case of caste panchayat:-
In rural areas, caste panchayats used to keep an eye on whether the characteristics of the caste and caste rules are followed properly. But today, the institution called caste panchayat has completely become obsolete. Although it has dominance and influence over some societies in rural areas, it has no role in most rural areas.
7. In the case of untouchability:-
The issue of untouchability associated with the caste system has also undergone many changes. The deterioration of social relations centered on purity and untouchability has largely disappeared today. Along with the role of the Constitution, modern, educated, rational, and democratic humanists have played a significant role in the eradication of this shameful issue.
8. In the case of maintaining purity:-
The religious behavior associated with the caste system or the activities and methods related to maintaining purity have also undergone extensive changes. Even in rural areas, no caste today follows the rules and procedures prescribed by the scriptures exactly.
9. In the case of title:-
It is now very difficult to identify a caste by looking at the title. Because if a person wants, he can go to court and change his name and title. In that case, if a Shudra holds the title of Brahmin, he is not known as a Shudra. Even in rural India, the issue of giving status based on title is neglected today.
After all, in the modern social system, a person's place is determined based on his earned status, not on the status assigned by caste. This fact marks a major change in the caste system in Indian rural societies as well.
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