Question 1(a) · 10 marks · 147 words written
Opening · a definition
MN srinivas explains Sanskritization as the 'imitation of lifestyles, beliefs & values of the Dwija caste by the lower caste individuals & families to mobilize themselves upward in local caste hierarchy.'
He explains Sanskritization of Coorgs in his 'Religion & society in the Coorgs of south India'.
Body · points
Sanskritization reflecting Indian society
I) on SOCIAL TRANSFORMATION
- Caste Mobility: seen through sanskritization; against Indological
view of Ghurye & Henry Maine.
Lingayats mobilized in 12th century.
Open system of 'jati' rather than closed system of 'varna' was empirical reality of Indians.
II> ON CULTURAL INFLUENCES
Upper castes seen as reference individuals by all members of society.
Srinivas also included other DOMINANT CASTES (otherwise middle or lower castes) as culturally influencing people. eg. Vokkaligas → Dominant Caste in Rampura village; they were imitated.
Close · a summary
Despite the critiques, SANSKRITIZATION helps understand social transformation in ancient & contemporary INDIA.