Societal Architecture
Hinduism is an ancient religion that has influenced India, its culture, and values for centuries. The structure of Hinduism is complex and demands a level of devotion from its followers that many find difficult to devote. Specifically, the caste system established by Hinduism is rigid and often leads to dissatisfaction.
The Indian caste system consists of four main groups known as varnas. Those on the highest levels of the hierarchy, the Brahmins, are expected to be of a high character, to devote themselves to religious studies, and priestly duties. Below them in order are the kshatriyas or warriors, vaishyas or merchants, and lastly, the shudras or service providers and farmers.
Traditionally, people belonging in the same caste only marry between themselves and the occupations performed by the individuals essentially become predetermined. This often leads to a lack of upward mobility as well as societal dissatisfaction. Additionally, those that fall outside of the same group are treated as untouchables and are largely excluded from participating in the same rights and privileges accorded to the other groups.
Insufficient Amendments
Beyond the caste system, Hinduism is known for its complex religious activities and ceremonies. Traditionally these rituals are determined by the Vedas, ancient religious texts that were written before the 5th century BC and contain information about the worship of deities. People were obligated to follow these rituals that demand a great deal of time and energy with no tangible reward.
Admittedly, Hinduism has attempted to amend certain regulations concerning its faith. For instance, in certain denominations the system of hereditary caste is not officially recognized and societal borders are seen as fluid instead of rigid. Moreover, important figures such as Gandhi have generally been against the idea of caste privilege.
Furthermore, the impact of industrialization and labour migration from the 19th century onwards has gradually made the traditional use of caste more obsolete. In particular, it is no longer necessary to pay attention to the caste of a person as an indicator of occupation.
Religiously Incompatible
Religion offers people the opportunity for spiritual enlightenment and divine truth and this sentiment is shared by many world religions. However, Hinduism goes a step further and demands the regular observance of the previously mentioned activities in order to be seen as devout. This is because Hinduism claims to offer its followers a direct experience with the divine, as opposed to being a by-product of faith.
Critics observe that due to the heavy-handedness of its rituals, it can in turn give people a feeling of disconnection between their faith and what many would call the real world. In that regard, those who are not comfortable with the demands of Hinduism often look elsewhere to fulfill their spiritual needs.
Economic Disparities
Another factor fueling dissatisfaction with Hinduism are economic disparities. There is a general assumption that those of higher caste are typically more financially stable than individuals of lower caste. This is often due to exclusive entitlements for Brahmins such as access to land and government aid. Furthermore, there is also the notion that Brahmins are typically bestowed with a higher level of educational opportunities than those from the lower caste.
This can lead to the incorrect assumption that Brahmins are inherently privileged and that those of the lower castes are not as valued by the faith and society. At the same time, there is a need for increased job opportunities for the lower castes. This need for employment is complicated by their preconceived roles in society that typically exclude them from certain jobs.
Educational Attainment
The lack of education among certain segments of the Indian population can be attributed to the stifling conditions of Hinduism’s caste system. Generally speaking, those belonging to lower castes are not provided with the same educational privileges as those at the top of the hierarchy.
This discrepancy can be seen when looking at the literacy rate of the different varnas. According to 2019 data, Brahmins make up the majority of the educated segment of the population while those of the lower castes are significantly disadvantaged.
On the other hand, there is also evidence that claims that educational attainment is not necessarily determined by caste. Even though members of the lower castes may not have the same access to educational resources, this does not discount the possibility that some may still be able to rise to the top in terms of education if provided with the opportunity.
Present Day Relevance
At present, the dissatisfaction with Hinduism is not as pronounced as it was in the past. This is in part due to the modernisation of India and the gradual adoption of progressive Western values. However, despite these changing ideas, the same fundamental logic that sits below the caste system still exists on some level.
This means that some of the same elements that led to people’s unhappiness with Hinduism are still present today. In order to guarantee fairness in Indian society, there needs to be a move towards a more impartial legal and economic system that safeguards those of all castes.
Societal Participation
Hinduism’s caste system is fundamentally intertwined with Indian society. It is in this regard that it becomes important to actively encourage social inclusion, especially concerning those that have been traditionally disadvantaged. This means providing adequate access to employment, education, and healthcare for all citizens, regardless of their caste.
Furthermore, it is also important to recognise the importance of civic engagement and participation from minorities, since this ensures that their voices can be heard. Ultimately, societal discontent can only be eliminated by studying the conditions of each caste and taking firm action to ensure that the rights of all citizens are respected.
Political Practise
On a political level, there is need for a serious reevaluation of existing policies that shore up the entitlement of upper-class caste members, at the expense of others. This also involves achieving a better understanding of the economic and political implications of India’s caste system so as to create an equal and informed society.
At the same time, it is important to note that Hinduism’s ideals are slowly shifting over time to being more accepting of those from different backgrounds. Political figures must also lead by example and be aware of the potential pitfalls that come with classist and exclusive practises.
Equal Opportunity
To conclude, dissatisfaction with Hinduism is driven by the rigid structure of the caste system, its lack of mobility, and its economic and educational disparities. In an effort to tackle the issue, Hindus must strive to promote equal opportunity and access to resources for all citizens, regardless of caste. At the same time, politicians need to be just and conscious in their decision-making, while also taking into account their role as role models.
