1. The Caste System

2. What is the caste system?
Caste is the hereditary division of Indian society based on occupation.

3. Brahmins
Priests
Philosophers
Specialize in
spirit

4. Kshatriya
Ruler
Warrior
Landowner

5. Rajput Landowner This Rajput landowner is harvesting his crops
Rajput Landowner This Rajput landowner is harvesting his crops.  He is a member of the caste Kshatriyas, which is right below the Brahmans.  He is important to the community because he is the main source of food.  He also is a protector.

6. Vaishya merchants
Fruit Merchant The Fruit Merchant is part of the Vaishya caste. 
The Vaishya caste are
shopkeepers and sell products, unlike the Shudra who sell services.

7. artisans, agriculturalists
Shudra
artisans, agriculturalists

8. Goala - Herdsmen Goala are a very important part of the Shudra caste
Goala - Herdsmen Goala are a very important part of the Shudra caste.  Within the caste of Shudra there are many different groups.  Each one of these groups performs a service.  Their specific service is a birthright and is somewhat similar to unions in the U.S.  The role that they play is respected because they deal with the cows which are considered sacred.

9. Dhobi - Washermen Dhobi are part of the Shudra
Dhobi - Washermen Dhobi are part of the Shudra. Within the caste of Shudra there are many different groups.  Each one of these groups performs a service.  Their specific service is a birthright and is somewhat similar to unions in the U.S.  They wash the clothing for all the different caste levels.  Without the Dhobi, everyone would walk around with dirty stinky cloths.

10. Harijan (Children of God) “Outside" the caste system
(once known as "untouchables")

11. Musicians In India musicians are part of the lowest caste
Musicians In India musicians are part of the lowest caste.  They are Harijans (god's children) which used to be known as untouchables.  Though their music is enjoyed by many, the act of playing some of these instruments is considered to be unclean.  The saliva that is being blown into the horns is thought to be very unhygienic, therefore not fit for people in higher castes to play these instruments.