a. Sanskritisation
Sanskritisation is a concept in Indian sociology introduced by M.N. Srinivas. It refers to the process by which lower castes or tribal groups in India adopt the customs, rituals, and lifestyle of higher castes—especially Brahmins—in order to improve their social status.
Main Features:
- Imitation of Upper Castes: Lower castes begin to wear the clothes, follow the diet, and perform the rituals of upper castes.
- Change in Occupation: Often includes giving up occupations considered “impure” and taking up new, more respected work.
- Religious Practices: Includes worship of Hindu gods, reciting mantras, and observing festivals in the way upper castes do.
Example: A Scheduled Caste group may start observing vegetarianism and wearing the sacred thread to appear similar to Brahmins.
Sanskritisation does not necessarily lead to real change in caste status but helps improve social respect within local communities. It is a form of social mobility but within the caste system, not outside it.
Criticism:
- It reinforces the caste hierarchy rather than challenging it.
- It does not lead to structural change or equality.
b. Types of Marriages
Marriage is a socially and legally recognized union between two or more individuals. Different cultures recognize different forms of marriage based on number of partners, kinship rules, and religious beliefs.
1. Monogamy
This is the most common form of marriage where one man marries one woman. It is widely practiced and often legally required in many countries.
2. Polygamy
In this form, a person has more than one spouse.
- Polygyny: One man marries multiple women. Common in some African and Middle Eastern societies.
- Polyandry: One woman marries multiple men. Practiced in some Himalayan tribes like the Toda in India and some Tibetan groups.
3. Group Marriage
Rare form where several men and women form a marriage group. This is mostly theoretical and not commonly practiced.
4. Endogamy and Exogamy
- Endogamy: Marriage within a specific social group, caste, or tribe. Common in Indian caste system.
- Exogamy: Marriage outside one’s group. For example, gotra exogamy in Hindu tradition.
5. Cross-Cousin and Parallel-Cousin Marriages
In some tribal societies, marriage between certain types of cousins is encouraged:
- Cross-Cousin Marriage: Marriage between the children of a brother and sister.
- Parallel-Cousin Marriage: Marriage between children of two brothers or two sisters.
Conclusion:
Marriage types vary across cultures and are shaped by religion, law, and tradition. Understanding different marriage systems helps anthropologists study kinship, family structures, and social norms more deeply.