Varna System in India - 4 Varnas, Origin, Characteristics & Importance

The Varna system is an ancient Hindu social classification that divided society into four main groups—Brahmins (priests), Kshatriyas (warriors), Vaishyas (traders), and Shudras (laborers)—based on profession and qualities. Initially flexible and linked to karma and personal attributes, it gradually became rigid and birth-based. Over time, the Varna system evolved into the more complex caste system with numerous sub-divisions. 

Varna System is one of the most important topics for the UPSC IAS exam. It covers a significant part of the Ancient History subject in the Mains General Studies Paper-1 syllabus and General Studies Paper-1 of the UPSC Prelims Syllabus.

In this article, we shall discuss the varna system, its evolution, characteristics, the four principal categories of the Varna, and its gradual withdrawal from the subcontinent.

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What is the Varna system in India?

The Varna system is a social system of stratification that divides society into various strata based on social and economic abilities. This hierarchical system was prevalent during the early Vedic period. The earliest reference to the Varna can be found in the Tenth mandala of the Rig Veda.

Unlike the caste system, the Varna was not rigid, i.e., it allowed an individual's social mobility. Under this system, the individuals were classified into four categories, i.e., Brahmins, Kshatriyas, vaishyas, and Shudras. Each Varna had to follow its obligations and adhere to the varna norms.

• Brahmins held the highest status and were responsible for religious rituals and education.
• Kshatriyas were tasked with governance, administration, and protection of society.
• Vaishyas managed trade, agriculture, and economic activities.
• Shudras provided essential services and manual labor to support the other Varnas.

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Origin & Evolution of the Varna System in India

The Varna system, also known as the caste system, has a complex evolution in ancient India. This social structure emerged over time and was based on factors such as occupation, birth, and societal roles. Around 1500 BC, Varna gained prominence in India through the arrival of the Aryans, immigrants from Central Asia who differentiated themselves from the original inhabitants based on skin colour.

The Aryans' arrival led to conflicts with the original inhabitants, called Dasas, prompting a division intending to subjugate the Dasas. During the Rig Vedic period, societal divisions emerged. One group of Aryans claimed intellectual leadership as priests, while another group took on the role of protectors known as Rajanya, leaving the ordinary people. This division influenced occupations.

In the later Vedic era, a new Varna, Shudra, appeared, mentioned in the 10th mandala of the Rig Veda. This marked the establishment of the four-fold Varna system. Brahmins, Kshatriyas, and Vaishyas, received the dwija (twice-born) status, whereas Shudras were excluded from this status, serving the upper three Varnas.

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Some of the major features of the Varna system in India include:

• Occupational Division: The Varna system divided people based on their work—Brahmins as priests, Kshatriyas as warriors, Vaishyas as traders, and Shudras as laborers.
• Scriptural Basis: It was mentioned in ancient Hindu texts like the Rigveda and Bhagavad Gita.
• Qualities-Based Origin: Originally, a person’s Varna was based on their qualities (guna) and actions (karma), not their birth.
• Social Hierarchy: It created a structured social order, with Brahmins at the top and Shudras at the bottom.
• Restricted Mobility: Over time, it became rigid, and people were expected to follow their inherited roles.
• Cultural Influence: It influenced family roles, education, and access to religious learning.
• Religious Duties: Each Varna had different responsibilities related to rituals, protection, trade, or service.

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Purpose of the Varna System

Under the Varna system, society was differentiated into four different varnas. People were accorded different varnas as per their occupation and capabilities. The classification accorded based on these parameters helped better classify the society. The duties have been classified under the act, leading to the proper performance of one’s duties. The performance of one’s applications was presumed to be an underlying reason for attaining moksha. This event leads to harmony in society as one’s duties are correctly known and prevent disharmony and chaos. This helps in dissolving the conflicts. This would eventually lead to peace, liberty, freedom, and shared prosperity. Apart from ensuring harmony in society, it helps maintain purity among each Varna.

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The four principal categories of the varna system are as follows:

Brahmins

• The Brahmins occupied the highest position in Varna.
• Brahmins fulfilled roles as Hindu priests, royal advisors, and learned scholars.
• Their primary functions encompassed disseminating Vedic knowledge, conducting rituals and ceremonies for the king, and accepting offerings.
• Brahmins held the responsibility of formulating societal regulations for its orderly functioning.

Kshatriya

• In the Varna hierarchy, Kshatriyas rank second.
• Kshatriyas were known for their roles in warfare.
• They constituted the warrior class, comprising kings and soldiers, with mutual respect for Brahmins.
• Kshatriyas defended the populace through battles and rewarded Brahmins for their rituals.
• Tensions occasionally arose between Kshatriya rulers and Brahmins, vying for social dominance.

Vaishyas

• In the hierarchy of the Varna system, Vaishyas held the third position.
• Vaishyas referred to the ordinary citizens, subjects of the king.
• Engaged in farming, trade, cattle rearing, business, and craftsmanship.
• Vaishyas paid tributes to kings and presented gifts during royal ceremonies.
• They were permitted to be present during sacrifices and had a role in supporting the rituals.
• Vaishyas and their families were typically involved in service to the king.

Shudras

• In the Varna system's hierarchy, the Shudras occupied the lowest position.
• They encompassed manual laborers, workers, slaves, and land-less tenants.
• Shudras faced the status of untouchables.
• Their roles primarily entailed menial tasks, serving the upper three Varnas.
• Shudras were prohibited from witnessing sacrifices, reading Vedas, or listening to them.
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Here's a table showing the difference between the Varna system and the Caste system:

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