1. Brahman Priests and teachers Highest caste in the social order
Best educated of the castes
Often serve as advisors to Indian leaders
Must follow rules to stay pure- cannot plow or touch leather.
Can cook- are prized as cooks since all castes can eat the food that they prepare.

2. Kshatriya Warriors, Rulers, Landowners 2nd caste in the social order
Can include many different groups of people.
All members of this group are united in owning land.
Word means “power, government, dominion”
Initially was the highest caste, however, in a power struggle with the priests, the Brahman came out first.

3. Vaishya Merchants, skilled workers 3rd caste in the social order
Because of economic power as merchants, this class has significant power in India.
Often run Indian corporations and value education
Word means “to live”
Many times were the driving force in social change

4. Shudra Farmers and artisans 4th and lowest caste in the social order
All members are united in performing a service.
Building houses, making furniture, creating art, gardening, cleaning, barbers, and dealing with cows are all occupations that can be found in this caste.
Role is to support the other three classes.

5. Harijan Once called “Untouchables” Outside of the caste system
Were considered too dirty to be touched by the other castes
Name means “God’s children”. Prefer the name “Dalit”
Includes musicians
Include leather workers, street sweepers, and manual laborers
Cannot participate in much of Hindu society