The Reality of Caste in Hinduism: Abolition, Evolution, and Belief

The question of whether Hinduism promotes caste-based discrimination is a multifaceted and nuanced one. This article seeks to explore the historical context, evolution, and contemporary realities of caste in Hinduism, highlighting the efforts made to combat caste-based discrimination and the foundational beliefs that underpin the religion.

Historical Context and Caste System in Hinduism

Hinduism does not inherently promote caste theories. The concept of caste (varna) emerged within the broader framework of Hindu dharma as a social and occupational classification system. However, the rigid and discriminatory aspect of the caste system was not a characteristic of Hinduism itself, but rather was disseminated and enforced by societal structures and practices over time.

Caste Theories and Their Origin

Caste theories were promoted by societal structures for practical and administrative needs. These systems were historically used to manage complex societies, but they often led to inequality and discrimination. It is important to understand how the caste theory originated and how it has evolved over time.

Abolition of Caste-Based Discrimination

The abolition of caste-based discrimination in Nepal, a nominally Hindu country, under the aegis of King Mahendra Bir Bikram Shah Dev, was a significant milestone. This occurred in the early 1960s, around the same period as Martin Luther King Jr. was advocating for civil rights in the United States. This comparison highlights the modern impact of religious and sociopolitical movements on societal norms.

Nepal's literacy rate was only 10% at the time, indicating a tight religious grip on the populace. Despite this context, there was no backlash against the abolition of the caste system. This suggests that the ruling elites and the populace gradually came to accept the principles of equality and justice.

Contemporary Realities of Caste in Nepal

Recent visits to communities such as the Mushahar, a Dalit sub-caste group, have shown a gradual decline in caste-based discrimination. A Dalit woman stated that about 15 years ago, they faced discrimination, but now they can freely access public spaces such as temples and schools. The Maoist influence played a significant role in this gradual change.

My parents' generation, I am told, was the last fully casteist generation. While inter-caste marriages are still rare, there is a growing acceptance as social intermingling increases. This suggests that the caste system, while not completely abolished, has seen a significant reduction in its intensity and cruelty.

Beliefs and Foundation of Hinduism

Hinduism is a religion that focuses on complete liberation (moksha/mukti). Believers in Hinduism hold that the eternal, unperishable self (atman) is the only true and real entity, and is present in all human beings. This belief underpins the idea that caste, gender, tribe, or social class are inconsequential in achieving the broader goals of Hindu dharma.

The doctrine of myththya (unreality) emphasizes that material existence and social categorizations are false and not worth clinging to. Therefore, any Hindu worth their salt would not believe in the mundane and discriminatory aspects of caste.

Conclusion

Hinduism does not promote caste-based discrimination; rather, it is a religion that teaches the equal importance and validity of all human beings. The abolition of caste-based discrimination in countries like Nepal stands as a testament to the evolving nature of societal norms and the power of religious and sociopolitical movements. While challenges persist, the foundation of Hindu beliefs supports the ideals of equality and the realization of the universal self.