Sudras

Sudras, also spelled Shudras, are one of the four varnas described in classical Hindu social theory. In traditional accounts, the term denotes a broad category of laboring or service-oriented groups who support the three higher varnas—Brahmins, Kshatriyas, and Vaishyas. The etymology of shudra is often linked to meanings such as “servant” or “worker,” and some mythic narratives describe Shudras as originating from the feet of the cosmic being Purusha, a formulation that has been interpreted as establishing a hierarchical social order.

Historically, Shudras were associated with a wide range of occupations centered on service, agriculture, crafts, and various artisanal trades. They are described as performing duties for the other varnas and engaging in activities that enable the functioning of society. The scope and organization of Shudra communities varied regionally and over time, with numerous sub-groups and jatis developing within different geographic areas.

In Hindu scriptures and later dharma-shastra literature, duties assigned to Shudras are presented as complementary to the duties of the other varnas. Texts such as Manusmriti and other traditional authorities discuss expectations regarding conduct and occupation, though interpretations and emphasis have differed across periods and communities. Critics argue that these sources codified social inequality, while reformers and scholars have stressed historical change, regional variation, and the constructed nature of varna-based identities.

In contemporary India, caste identities remain socially significant in many contexts, but the Indian Constitution prohibits caste-based discrimination and provides for affirmative action programs. The term Shudra is used in academic and sociological discourse as a broad umbrella for diverse communities categorized in the fourth varna, with regional distinctions and evolving social status.