How did the caste system begin?

These girls, who belong to the Untouchable caste, make dung patties which are used for fuel and heat by members of all the castes. This job was considered so unclean that other castes did not associate with the members of society that performed it. read more

Ill effects of Caste system did not stop at stagnation. Communities started living in separated areas. The caste system not only divided the society but also graded it. The work relate to religion was rated high & any physical work was graded low. Functions with more labor were graded even lower. read more

While the caste system has been formally abolished under the Indian constitution, there is still discrimination and prejudice against Dalits across South Asia. Photo by Daniel Berehulak/Getty Images Recent studies have suggested that India’s traditional caste system remains surprisingly intact despite the country’s economic surge. read more

Nonetheless, during the six centuries of Islamic domination (c. 1150-1750), the caste system evolved considerably. For example, Brahmins began to rely on farming for their income, since the Muslim kings did not give rich gifts to Hindu temples. This practice was considered justified so long as Shudras did the actual physical labor. read more