The Caste Puzzle: Is India's Social Hierarchy Rooted in Religion or Economics?

The caste system, often regarded as a hallmark of Indian society, has a complex origin rooted in history, culture, religion, and economics. It has significantly shaped the country's social, economic, and political landscape. Various scholars, including D.D. Kosambi, Louis Dumont, and R.S. Sharma, have studied its evolution to understand its multifaceted nature. This study explores the caste system's origins and evolution while analyzing prominent scholars' perspectives and critiques. Definition and Framework of Caste Caste is traditionally understood as a hereditary social group tied to specific professions and practices. It is often defined by hierarchical relationships that determine social status. Louis Dumont, in Homo Hierarchicus , highlighted the caste system as an interdependent structure deeply entrenched in Hindu religious ideology, emphasizing concepts of "purity" and "impurity." According to Dumont, caste operates as a social and relig...