Evolution of the Caste System in India

There are several theories regarding origin and evolution of castes such as Political theory, Traditional theory, Economic or Occupational theory, Ethical theory, Racial theory etc. Each of them is discussed briefly below:

Political Theory

This theory holds caste as Brahmanic child of Indo-Aryan culture and says that caste system developed in Gangetic plains by Brahmins to maintain their occupational supremacy. From there it spread to other parts of the country. Initially there were four varnas based on occupation. In the post-Vedic period, some other castes such as mixed {sankara} and outcastes {antyavasayin} emerged. With the increase of priestly influence, the rigidity among the castes depend and restrictions were imposed on food and drink. This theory was opposed on the basis of the argument that it does not satisfy the racial distinctions found among various castes in India.

Traditional Theory

This is divine origin theory of castes which says that caste system was created by Brahma himself. This theory says that Brahmins originated from mouth, Khastriya from arms, Vaishyas from stomach and Sudras from feet of Brahma. This theory, even if taken notional, does not justify origin of numerous castes. However, to great extent, it gives impetus to the functional origin of the caste system.

Occupational theory

This theory says that origin of caste system is in occupations adopted by people initially which later became based on birth. The people who performed better professions occupied higher place in society. It was occupation which gave rise to numerous castes such as Lohar, Sunar, Chamar, Patwa, Teli, Gadaria etc.

However this theory suffers from several defects. It does explain why some castes are considered higher and other castes are lower. The function of Lohar or farmer is as much vital; yet they are considered lower in ranks. Further, if all castes are based on occupation, then all farmers should belong to one caste. Thus, only this theory fails to explain all questions about origin of castes.

Racial Theory

This theory rests upon Aryan invasion theory, which now stands discarded. It says that caste system developed after arrival of Aryans in India in order to maintain their separate existence from Dravidians {dasa varna}.

Apart from the other theories, there are several other theories also. These include:

• Caste system was developed to save Aryan Race and culture from intermixing with other races
• It originated to safeguard the professional and occupational secrets
• Geographical distinctions and immobility of people led to caste system;
• Hindu kings made it obligatory for everyone to follow his caste occupation.

All these versions give only one side or narrow explanation of  the origin of caste system. Caste system in India is very complex and must not have originated due to one circumstance or one factor. Different factors mentioned above have played role in origin and development of caste systems in the country.