Question 1(a) · 12.5 marks · 190 words written
Sanskritization and structural changes
Opening · a definition
Sanskritization is the process of cultural mobility (also secular) of lower castes to higher castes by way of adopting rituals, practices, ideals of higher castes and emulating their way of living.
M.N Srinivas's Sanskritization concepts deals with establishing caste as a 'not closed structure', especially in the middle of hierarchy. Sanskritization is both aided by and brings about structural changes. Structural changes leading to it -
Body · points
i) Secular education ii) More share in administrative jobs iii) Land iv) Political participation v) Migration
Thus sanskritization explains the role of secular mobility in cultural mobility and finally structural mobility.
Changes brought about by sanskritization - i) Change in caste position in hierarchy ii) According of more privileges and vanishing of disabilities iii) Removal of stigma attached
Examples of Sanskritization - Nayars in Karnataka sanskritized to upper castes. A lower caste person putting tilak on forehead - trying to emulate Brahmins.
Criticism i) Sanskritization is an overblown concept, thus masking the problems of lower caste. It is a Brahminic construct. ii) Does not explain inclusion of tribes in caste fold. iii) Does not deal with all three spheres of caste, class and power.
Close · no separate close
None written.