The caste system emerged during this time from "summary" of The Ancient History of India, Vedic Period by K. C. Singhal,Roshan Gupta
During the Vedic Period in ancient India, a social structure known as the caste system began to take shape. This system divided society into distinct groups based on occupation and social status. The four main castes that emerged during this time were the Brahmins (priests and scholars), Kshatriyas (warriors and rulers), Vaishyas (merchants and farmers), and Shudras (laborers and artisans). Each caste had its own duties and responsibilities, and individuals were expected to adhere to the roles assigned to their caste. The caste system was deeply ingrained in Vedic society and played a significant role in shaping social relationships and interactions. Caste determined everything from one's profession to whom they could marry, eat with, or socialize with. The system was hierarchical, with Brahmins at the top and Shudras at the bottom. This hierarchy was based on the belief that each caste had a specific function in society and that individuals were born into their caste based on their karma from past lives. The caste system was not only a social structure but also a religious and philosophical concept. It was believed that each caste was created from a different part of the body of the cosmic being, Purusha. According to this myth, Brahmins were born from the head, Kshatriyas from the arms, Vaishyas from the thighs, and Shudras from the feet. This myth reinforced the idea of the superiority of Brahmins and the inferiority of Shudras. The caste system was not without its controversies and criticisms. It has been criticized for perpetuating inequality and discrimination based on birth rather than merit. Individuals born into lower castes faced social stigma and limited opportunities for advancement. Despite these criticisms, the caste system continued to be a significant aspect of Indian society for centuries to come, shaping social norms, traditions, and cultural practices.
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