For those who scrutinise Sanatan Dharma, and even for those well-versed in its intricacies, the vexing issue of caste serves as both an indictment and a source of profound anguish. It stands as an unsettling and ignominious incongruity amidst the tranquil sea of profound wisdom that this ancient philosophy otherwise represents.
The Caste System: A Historical Odyssey
The term ‘caste’ itself appears to be a misnomer, a mere English translation of ‘varna,’ a system of social hierarchy originally designed to regulate the division of labor within society. Birth was never intended to be the determining factor. The precise point at which it became associated with birth remains shrouded in the mists of history. In the Vedas and Upanishads, the foundational scriptures of Sanatan Dharma, there is no clear linkage between the texts and the caste system. The varna system, as it existed during that era, was remarkably flexible, dependent on an individual’s inclination toward a particular path. In the Bhagavad Gita, Lord Krishna elucidates this idea, stating:
“चातुर्वर्ण्यं मया श्रृष्टं गुणकर्मविभागश: (4:13) – I have created four Varnas on the basis of Gunas and Karmas, (not birth.)”
One cannot help but ponder the extent to which critics or proponents of the so-called ‘caste system’ have delved into a serious study of the Upanishads and the subsequent smritis before pronouncing their judgment and declaring their erudition.
Manu and His Controversial Code
The ‘caste system,’ therefore, appears to be a Western conceptualisation and, at best, a partial explanation for this social structure. It seems to have originated as an attempt to systematically and efficiently organise society but, over time, degenerated into a pernicious practice. The often-cited Manusmriti, attributed to Manu and believed to formalise this concept, is a relatively recent development following the Vedas and Upanishads. Its historical origins do not align with those of the Vedas, Samhita’s, Upnishads or Vedanta. The debate surrounding its true purpose, whether a means to regulate social functions or a crafty instrument to perpetuate Brahmin hegemony entrenched in society, continues to be passionately contested.
As it rages, one can not ignore one intriguing aspect of this ongoing toxic debate is that few participants have thoroughly read or understood Manusmriti, the fountainhead of this practice. The context of its origin, on one hand, and its manifested form and practice, on the other, may differ significantly.
An Unfortunate Devolution
Over time, the caste system transformed into a rigid practice based on birth, an undeniable fact that has stymied social mobility between varnas. The justifications may vary, but even proponents of the caste system acknowledge the harm it has wrought upon Hindu society.
Sanatan, as practiced in modern times, differs significantly from its Vedic origins. Rituals, which had a limited role in religious life during that period, have now assumed a central place. Mundak Upanishad, for instance, strongly critiques rituals like Yagna and Havana, comparing those who seek heaven through rituals to blind men led by other blind men. Vedic and Vedantic Sanatan emphasised the spiritual aspects of religion, focusing on overcoming one’s inner negativities. Today, however, rituals dominate Hindu worship. While Swami Dayanand Saraswati and Raja Ram Mohan Roy made efforts to rectify these aberrations, they persist.
It remains a reality that the majority of Hindu society does not adhere to the dictates of scriptures. The caste structure has, undoubtedly, hardened over time, possibly before the era of Lord Buddha. Many smritis, including Manusmriti, were composed much later. Despite persuasive arguments attempting to explain this aberration, it is an aberration that must be eradicated.
Nevertheless, aberrations exist in every religion and society. Jesus Christ preached love even for sinners, yet anti-Semitism among Christians led to the death of millions of innocent Jews. Islam, in its relatively brief history, offers even more distressing examples.
How Modern India Grapples with It?
In contemporary India, how does the caste system function in practice? Urban areas, arguably, witness little overt manifestation of this system; if it exists, it is greatly attenuated. Rural India, on the other hand, still significantly embodies it, though its influence diminishes by the day. Education and economic development are gradually dismantling this pernicious system. By objective assessment, the caste system in India is on a decline.
Paradoxically, certain politicians both decry the caste system as a malady on par with malaria and dengue and simultaneously exploit it as a means to amass and consolidate political power. Ironically, the same caste system, for them becomes a convenient tool for increasing and retaining political power. The entire exercise of caste census, ostensibly for social justice and equity, is being pursued with remarkable enthusiasm. This apparent contradiction, vividly on display raises profound questions regarding the role of the caste system in Indian politics and society. One must ponder whether these politicians would even have a place in the political landscape were it not for the enduring paradoxical nature of the caste system. What underpins this apparent contradiction, and who among us will summon the courage to confront it?
This enigma invites deep contemplation and introspection, compelling society to question its own evolution.
The Remedy: Education and Prosperity
The antidote to the caste system is education and affluence. As India becomes more prosperous and progressive, the caste system will gradually fade, first from its physical manifestations and eventually from the minds of the people.
If it persists, it will be solely due to some self-centered politicians who, for their narrow political gains, keep it alive while hypocritically denouncing it from the rooftops.
And The Future
There is no defence or justification for this degraded version of Varna system regardless of the context of its historical origin. This aberration must go; and go it will. Sanatan Dharma, with its ancient origins and profound philosophical foundations, continues to thrive as a dynamic and evolving way of life. Its principles of dharma, karma, and moksha continue to influence the lives of millions. Yet, addressing social inequalities, promoting inclusivity, and navigating the complexities of a changing world require constant reflection and adaptation. The resurgence of Sanatan Dharma in contemporary India attests to its enduring appeal and its profound impact on the nation’s cultural and spiritual landscape. A source of wisdom built and enriched over millennia by individuals of remarkable insight and foresight, its evolution should not be hindered; its essence should be understood, assimilated, and shared.
To relevance of Rigvedic spirit “आ नो भद्रा: क्रतवो यन्तु विश्वत:।” (Let noble ideas come to us from all sides) was never so strong and compelling, as it is today, as we shape a resurgent Bharat.
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