HISTORY OF VARNA OR CASTE SYSTEM AND ITS IMPACT ON TODAY’S INDIA

Abstract

The concept of Varna system as described in Vedas, specially in Rig-Ved is often misunderstood as it was based on Birth. But actually, the varna-system was not based on birth but in natural tendencies or qualities of a person. Varna-system was based on occupation and individual qualities. By changing one’s occupation one can change their varna (caste). It is as a flexible system because a Sudra can change his varna by performing or cultivating productivity, a Vaishya can change his caste, by the knowledge of Vedas one can become Brahmin. And through inter-caste marriage also one can change their varna. There are several examples of inter-caste marriage in ancient time. Such as Ravan (Brahmin) marry to princess Mandodari (Kshatriya), king Yayati (Kshatriya) married Brahmi’s daughter (Devyani) and so on.Again there are some examples found in Hindu historical and mythological texts that through one's tendency or knowledge, one can change their caste (varna). For eg- Kshatriya Vishwamitra became Brahmin because of his penance. Sage Valmiki (the writer of Ramayana) was brought up in a Sudra varna (hunter) family. Valmiki achieved status of Brahmin by his intelligence and hard work. He has a vast knowledge of all the Vedas. This study highlights how varna (caste) system was taken on negative and misunderstood as it is based on birth and how social discrimination arises and how reservation system implements.