Abstract

In Indian society, the Caste System has considered a closed system of stratification and the primary characteristic of it is the endogamous nature that contributes to a socio-economic class structure in which individuals are divided on the basis of attributes that are external to them. The endogamous nature of the caste system, with some exceptions of exogamous marriages specifically in the Indian culture, impacted the lives of Indian people ranging from a variety of classes, regions and religions on a massive scale. The systemic issues dating back in history with respect to Caste and caste endogamy has thus led to significant societal consequences and repercussions. This basic framework defined the relationship between Caste, class and marriage in the form of an institution. This paper seeks to examine the endogamous nature of the Indian Caste System as an institution that is external to these individuals. It also includes the concept of social stratification institutionalisation and goes on to the social mobility of the Indian Caste System. The concepts of ‘caste origin’ and ‘caste destination’ are also highlighted in this paper.

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