jaati

Jaati is a term used in the Indian subcontinent, particularly in India, Pakistan, and Nepal, to refer to a hierarchical social division. It is often translated as "caste" in English, though the nuances of the term are complex and debated. Historically, jaati systems are linked to the varna system, a broader classification of society into four varnas: Brahmins (priests and scholars), Kshatriyas (warriors and rulers), Vaishyas (merchants and farmers), and Shudras (laborers and artisans). Below these varnas were groups considered outside the system, often referred to as Dalits or "untouchables."

Within each varna, there are numerous endogamous jaatis, meaning that marriage typically occurs within one's own jaati. These jaatis are often associated with specific occupations, although this occupational linkage has become less rigid over time. The social status and perceived purity of a jaati determine its rank within the hierarchy. Historically, jaati played a significant role in determining social interactions, access to resources, and political power.

While the Indian constitution officially abolished caste-based discrimination and untouchability, the influence of jaati persists in many aspects of Indian society, including marriage, social networks, and politics. Understanding jaati is crucial for comprehending the social dynamics of the Indian subcontinent.