Q: Caste-like formations are present in Non-Hindu religious communities as well. Discuss with examples.

Model Answer:

Caste-like Formations in Non-Hindu Religious Communities

Caste-like formations, though traditionally associated with Hinduism, are indeed present in various non-Hindu religious communities in India and beyond. This phenomenon demonstrates the pervasive nature of social stratification and hierarchical systems across different cultural contexts.

Examples:

1. Islam in South Asia:
• Muslim communities exhibit caste-like divisions, such as the ashraf (noble) and ajlaf (low-born) categories.
• Sociologist Imtiaz Ahmad’s work highlights the persistence of caste practices among Indian Muslims, including endogamy and occupational specialization.

2. Christianity in India:
• Dalit Christians face discrimination within the church and wider Christian community.
• Andre Beteille’s research shows how conversion to Christianity did not erase pre-existing caste identities and practices in many cases.

3. Sikhism:
• Despite egalitarian principles, caste distinctions persist among Sikhs, with divisions like Jat Sikhs and Mazhabi Sikhs.
• Harjot Oberoi’s study on Sikh identity formation explores the interplay between caste and religious identity.

4. Buddhism:
• In Sri Lanka and Japan, Buddhist communities have developed hierarchical systems resembling caste.
• The Burakumin in Japan, though not strictly a caste, face similar social discrimination and occupational segregation.

5. Theoretical perspectives:
• Max Weber’s concept of “status groups” helps explain how caste-like formations can emerge in different religious contexts.
• Pierre Bourdieu’s theory of social and cultural capital illuminates how hierarchies are maintained across generations, even in ostensibly egalitarian religious systems.

These caste-like formations in non-Hindu communities often share common features with the Hindu caste system, such as:
• Endogamy and restrictions on inter-group marriages
• Hereditary occupational specialization
• Notions of purity and pollution
• Social and economic discrimination

The persistence of caste-like structures across religious boundaries suggests that social stratification is deeply ingrained in South Asian society and can adapt to new religious contexts. It also highlights the complex relationship between religion, social structure, and identity in the region.