Hayat Ashraf

The evolution of jatis, or social groups, in Indian society is a complex and multifaceted process that has occurred over thousands of years. Jatis are traditionally understood as occupational or professional groups, often organized along hereditary lines. Here's a general overview of the evolution of jatis in Indian society: 1. Vedic Period (1500-500 BCE): During the Vedic period, society was organized into four varnas, or social classes, namely Brahmins (priests and scholars), Kshatriyas (warriors and rulers), Vaishyas (merchants and farmers), and Shudras (laborers and servants). The varna system was based on birth, and occupations were primarily hereditary. While not exactly the same as jatis, the varna system laid the foundation for social stratification in later periods. 2. Early Historic Period (500 BCE-200 CE): During this period, jatis started to emerge as more specific occupational groups within the varna framework. Each jati was associated with a particular profession or o...