Introduction In India, the concepts of tribe and caste have traditionally been seen as separate and distinct. Tribe is often linked to isolated, indigenous communities, while caste is connected to the hierarchical Hindu social structure. However, in practice, these categories are not rigid. They are fluid and have changed over time due to various social, […]
Introduction The caste system in India is one of the oldest forms of social organization. Mahatma Gandhi had a complex and evolving view on the caste system. While he respected the traditional idea of varna based on work and duties, he strongly opposed untouchability and discrimination. In this post, we explore the merits and demerits
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Introduction Mahatma Gandhi, deeply rooted in Indian traditions and scriptures, acknowledged the system of Varnashrama — the division of society into different occupational groups or varnas. However, unlike the rigid caste system that emerged over time, Gandhi rejected the idea of hierarchy or subordination among these varnas. He believed that each varna had equal value
Introduction Colonialism had a significant impact on many aspects of Indian society, including how caste was understood, practiced, and categorized. While caste existed in India long before British rule, the colonial administration redefined and institutionalized caste in new ways. This answer explores how colonialism shaped the perception of caste through policies, censuses, administrative practices, and
Did colonialism shape the perceptions of caste? Discuss. Read More »
Gandhi-Ambedkar Debate on Caste System The Gandhi-Ambedkar debate on caste system is one of the most significant philosophical and political discourses in modern India. Dr. B.R. Ambedkar, a Dalit leader and social reformer, saw the caste system as inherently oppressive and rooted in Hindu religious texts. He demanded its complete abolition and advocated for the
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Ritual Inversion Ritual inversion is a sociocultural concept where established hierarchies, roles, or symbols are temporarily reversed during specific rituals or festivals. In the context of Dalit philosophy, it becomes a powerful tool for challenging dominant caste structures and reclaiming dignity. Examples include rituals where Dalits mimic or subvert upper-caste religious ceremonies to expose their
Untouchability Untouchability is one of the most degrading social practices rooted in the caste system of India. It involves the systematic exclusion and discrimination of certain communities, especially Dalits, deemed “impure” by traditional Hindu society. This practice denies individuals basic human rights such as access to public spaces, education, water sources, and temples. Untouchability is
Chakalatwam Chakalatwam is a concept deeply rooted in the Tamil Dalit experience and reflects the lived reality of systemic marginalization. The term is derived from the Tamil word “Chakali,” historically used to refer to washer communities who are part of the Dalit caste system. In philosophical discourse, Chakalatwam has come to represent the condition of
Social Utility Social utility refers to the value or usefulness of an action, institution, or policy in terms of its benefits to society as a whole. In Dalit philosophy, this concept is crucial for evaluating social norms and practices, especially those related to caste. Dalit thinkers and reformers often ask whether a tradition or belief
Introduction Dr. B. R. Ambedkar, the architect of the Indian Constitution and one of the most influential social reformers of modern India, devoted much of his life to fighting the caste system. Born into a Dalit family, Ambedkar experienced caste-based discrimination firsthand. His deep critique of the caste system and call for its annihilation became
Discuss Dr. B. R. Ambedkar’s views on caste system and its annihilation. Read More »
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