The Castes of Ramayana

by Jyotsna  Kamat
First Online: July 05, 2009
Page Last Updated: August 20, 2024

In his book on "Indian Caste" in two volumes, John Wilson has dealt with the topic elaborately. The first volume divided into tweleve chapters deals with the evolution and nature of caste system over ages. He has discussed its presence in Hindu sacred literature, epics, Buddhist literature, as seen by Greeks, in law books, in later literature, in Harivamsa and in the Puranas.

His observation on caste system as depicted in Ramayana is noteworthy. Though Vaishyas and Shudras are shown their respective profession, there is no subordination of castes and ranks, founded on diversities of occupation as has been exhibited in later times.

In a chapter of Ayodhyakanda, the in habitants of the city of Ayodhya are represented as going out with Bharata, in an attempt to coax Ramachandra to come back and occupy the throne. A long list of followers of different occupations (88 in all) is given. It makes an interesting reading about professions in contemporary society.

List of Professions Mentioned in Ramayana Epic

Most of the occupations have archaic names in Sanskrit. Only English equivalents Wilson has provided are listed above.

We find that the Kshatriyas not finding place in the list! Brahmins were there, just behind Bharata who proceeded with his luggage loaded on bullocks.

Wilson has mentioned that in certain North Indian editions of the Valmiki Ramayana, the professions mentioned are fewer. In my personal copy of Ramayana, edited by Vidwan N. Ranganatha Sharma the number of occupations mentioned is only twenty six.

Reference:

• Indian Caste' - by John Wilson. Vol. I P-224-5, Bombay 1877