intersubcaste

Intersubcaste refers to the social interactions, rules, and practices that occur between different subcastes within a broader caste group. Subcastes, or jatis, often form distinct communities with their own roles, status, and cultural practices, and intersubcaste dynamics describe how members of one subcaste relate to members of others in daily life, work, and ritual practice.

Interactions span marriage and kinship networks, economic exchange, religious participation, education, and political organization. Endogamy within subcastes has historically been common, and ritual boundaries or notions of purity have sometimes limited contact across subcastes. Yet urbanization, migration, trade, and social reform have increased cross-subcaste interactions in many settings.

Historical context and law: In the Indian context, reform movements and constitutional measures have sought to reduce caste-based discrimination and encourage social mixing. The abolition of untouchability, anti-discrimination provisions, and legal provisions for inter-caste marriage have shaped intersubcaste relations in modern times.

Contemporary pattern: In rural areas, intersubcaste ties may be mediated by kinship, occupation, and village leadership; in cities, they may be more fluid. Intersubcaste marriages, while still less common than intra-subcaste marriages, have grown in some regions, accompanied by changes in status and social capital. Economic and political mobilization can realign subcaste identities, creating alliances or competition across subcastes.

Scholarly interest: Sociologists study intersubcaste as a lens to understand social hierarchy, mobility, and change within caste systems.