Caste System in Nepal: History, Facts and Details

We have been reading since an early age that Nepal is a multi-ethnic, multi-lingual, and multi-cultural country featuring more than 125 castes and 124 languages all over the country. It is one of the most diverse countries in the world in terms of social structure and stratification.

 

Nepal is a country with a long and complicated history, particularly when it comes to its social hierarchy. Caste-based discrimination has been an integral part of Nepalese society for centuries and continues to be an issue today. The caste system in Nepal is intricately intertwined with the Hindu religion, and the lack of education surrounding this topic can make it difficult to understand. 

 

The caste system in Nepal is a centuries-old social hierarchy that divides the population into four distinct castes: Brahmin, Kshatriya, Vaishya, and Shudra. Individuals are born into their caste and generally marry within their caste. The Nepalese government abolished the caste system, but it remains a significant part of Nepali society.

 

The Brahmin caste is at the top of the social hierarchy and consists of priests, teachers, and scholars. The Kshatriya caste consists of warriors and rulers. The Vaishya caste consists of merchants and farmers. The Shudra caste is at the bottom of the social hierarchy and consists of laborers and servants.

 

In this blog post, we'll take a closer look at the caste system in Nepal: what it is, how it works, and why it persists despite having been outlawed by the government decades ago. We'll also talk about some key players working to break down these barriers and create a more equitable society.

 

History Of Caste System In Nepal | How Did It Start?

The Caste System's history in Nepal is divided into three major parts. Ancient Era, Medieval Era, and Modern Era. The caste system in the ancient era mainly focused on the administration of Nepal before Lichhavi Kings. 

 

Similarly, the medieval era emphasizes the Licchavi era to the period after the Unification of Nepal by King Prithivi Narayan Shah. Likewise, the insights into the modern caste system come after the end of the Rana Regime and the establishment of Democracy in Nepal.

 

In the year 300, Kirats were defeated by groups of Indians who were called Licchavis. It was them who first introduced Hinduism and the caste system in Nepal. Though the design was derived from India, it somehow differs from India's caste system. The system practiced here in Nepal is more complex than expected since several subsidiaries are inside it.

 

India’s caste system generally is based on four varnas (Brahmin, Kshatriyas, Vaishyas, and Sudras). What differs the design in Nepal is its multi-ethnic component and varied culture and languages. As mentioned, Alone has more than 126 castes and ethnic groups with 125 linguistic communities. This makes the core area of the caste system more complex than India's caste system.

 

Nepal also has four main castes (varnas) based on the community's hierarchical framework. They have an exact distinction with their work.

 

Ancient Caste System

Ancient Nepal differed from the modern one - many rulers from various dynasties ruled this country, including the Gopal Dynasty, Mahispal Dynasty, Ahir Dynasty, and Kirat Dynasty. Several groups inhabited Nepal, like Aryans, Mongols, Astriks, and Dravidians (K.C 2009). There were regional dynasties in ancient Nepal; Kapilvastu, Ramgram, and Mithila regions had their Kings and system. 

 

The social evils were abruptly high during that time too. Castes like Chandal and Nishad were considered untouchables; eventually, people from those backgrounds later inherited the Hindu religion.

 

Several dynasties, like Ahir, Kirat, Gopal, and Mahispal, ruled Nepal for thousands of years in the ancient period. They had their system and prejudice prevailing inside their regime. 

 

Medieval Caste System

As mentioned earlier, Licchavis defeated the Kirat Dynasty and ruled Nepal for 630 years since 300 B.S. During that period, Nepal was highly influenced by Hinduism, brought by the Licchavi Kings from India. Along with the religion, the caste system was introduced in Nepal, and the design of four Varnas was practised.

 

There were four caste categories inside the system; Brahmin, Chhetris, Vaishyas, and Shudras. Castes considered untouchables like Nishad and Chandal came from the Hindu belief. But the evils did not end here - the powers were distributed hierarchically. Brahmins were the supreme groups of the caste system, while Chettris came in second. While Vaishyas were in the third, Sudras were placed at the last of the caste system based on their occupations.

 

This caste system was practised very strictly until the introduction of Democracy in Nepal in 2007.

 

Modern Caste System

The structure of the caste system has not changed yet, but the application of priorities has undoubtedly changed. Since the significant changes in Nepal, like Democracy in 2007 and its restoration in 2047 B.S., the scope of the caste system has changed.

 

Despite the traditional structure of the caste system in Nepal, there has been work on inclusiveness in the society, bringing all the suppressed and low castes to the limelight and significant lines.

 

The modern caste system is free and democratic, with no bounds and limitations. Every caste system has an equal right to exercise freedom and opportunities.

 

Brahmins, Kshatriyas, Vaishyas, and Sudras | Their History

Brahmins

Brahmins are the elite castes of the caste system in Nepal. Brahmins were priests, also known as spiritual and intellectual leaders, who devoted their time to studying and teaching. Besides, they were actively involved in performing sacrifices and officiating religious functions.

 

The word 'Brahmin' means the 'Supreme Self' as they are considered the highest Varna in Vedic Hinduism. The history of Brahmins is focused on India, and there were two divisions inside this caste: the Panch Gour and the Panch Dravida. The central Indian Vindhya mountain range separated them.

Photo: Priests during puja ceremony

 

Nepal inherited the same roots, and the Brahmins of the modern era are the descendants of those two categories.

 

Brahmins consider 'Rig Veda' as their main religious scripture. The treatise contains the history of Brahmins, including their mythological origin and roots. According to the beliefs, Lord Brahma, otherwise known as Lord Prajapati (God of Beings), is the founder of humankind on the planet. According to the Hindu grantha, Lord Brahma sacrificed himself to create the universe, and Brahmins are believed to have originated from his mouth. That's why they are regarded as the supreme class in the caste system.

 

Kshatriyas or Chhetris

Kshatriyas are the second most powerful varna of the caste system. The term 'Kshatriyas' refers to authority and power. Kshatriyas' meaning has more directed to the sovereignty over certain territories rather than the leadership. History shows that they are the ruling power of the State, and their primary purpose is fighting as a warrior.

 

Also, Kshatriyas are regarded as the protector of Dharma. They gained their status with the overview of their aptitude (guna), conduct (karma), and nature (swabhava).

 

According to the Hindu Myth, when Lord Brahma was procreating the universe, immense negative energy was released. It resulted in the birth of Rakshasas (Demons), who started torturing the Lord of Beings. When Lord Brahma urged for help to defeat Demons, Lord Vishnu mentioned that when positive energy gets created, there will be the presence of negative energy too. Then he suggested that Brahma create a particular race to fight as warriors, which he eventually did, and Kshatriyas were created.

 

According to Rig Veda, Kshatriyas were born from the arms of Lord Brahma, which means strength and power.

 

Vaishyas

Vaishyas, also known as 'common people,' are the third highest group in the caste system. According to the myths of Yanjur Veda, Vaishyas were created from the abdomen (belly) of Lord Brahma. Also, some believe that they originated from the thighs of Lord Brahma.

 

Bhagwat Gita mentions Vaishyas and their karma (duty) as 'Agriculture, breeding cattle, trade, (this) is the natural duty of the Vaishyas.' In simple language, they are considered responsible for sacrifice, agriculture, breeding, and trade.

Photo: A Nepali Farmer and his Oxen Journey Through the Fields.

 

Vaishyas are also considered the economically strong varna in the caste system. They also shared the dvjia status with Brahmin and Kshatriyas as they were keen on being 'twice-born' - they received the Upanayanam ceremony to achieve 'twice-born.'

 

There had been conflicts with ideology since Vaishyas were not upper social class, and it resulted in the support of sects like Buddhism and Jainism.

 

Sudras

Sudras are considered service-providing varna of the caste system. Hence, they are the lowest-ranked groups in social stratification. Several ancient myths mention that the duty of Sudras is serving of Brahmins, Kshatriyas, and twice-borns. Bhagwat Gita, too, cites, 'And the natural duty of the Sudras, too, consists in service.'

 

Nepal's ancient and medieval period featured a harsh societal environment for the Sudras, including several boycotts and discrimination. They have no equal rights and privileges as Brahmins and Kshatriyas; hence, they are prohibited from religious activities and temples.

 

According to Yanjur Veda, Sudras originated from God's feet, and since no Gods were born from the feet, they are not allowed in temples.

Due to the same reason, they are unable to be 'twice-born.' History and timeline show that due to unequal privileges and discrimination, many communities and individuals have opted for other religions like Islam, Christianity, Jainism, and Sikhism.

 

Sub-Categories Within the Caste System of Nepal

Inside four Varnas, there are numerous sub-castes that prevail in Nepal. As reports mention that Nepal is home to about 126 castes and ethnic groups with 124 languages spoken, it is evident that the country has diverse social stratification.

 

So what are the sub-castes, and how many are there inside 4 Varnas? Let's explore:

 

Brahmins:

Inside Brahmin Varna, we can find multiple sub-castes like Sharma, Ghimire, Upadhyaya, Sapkota, and many others. According to their deeds and roles, there are also social structures inside the Brahmin Varna. There are generally three categories of Brahmin:

• Khas Arya Brahmin
• Newar Brahmins
• Terai-based Brahmins

 

Similarly, based on geographical region, there are two sub-categories of Brahmin, which are:

• Kumai Brahmin
• Purbiya Brahmins

 

Kumai and Purbiya Brahmins are the descendants of Khas Arya Brahmins who worked for Upadhyaya Brahmins. People from the Kumai category have their roots in Kumau, India, and Purbiya Brahmins have their ancestry in Southern or Eastern India.

 

Based on class, Brahmins are of three types:

• Upadhyaya
• Jaisi

 

Updhyayas are the elite group of the Brahmin Varna, while Jaisi is the inferior one. It is believed that if high-class Brahmins marry a low-class woman and have kids, their kids will automatically be Jaisi Brahmin. Besides, there are three other conditions for a Brahmin to be a jaisi:

• If their mother is a widow
• If they bore them without marriage
• If they eloped without any cultural rituals and functions.

 

Upadyayas are considered to be the descendants of Sage Vyasa. They have the role of performing religious functions and also administrative positions.

 

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Kshatriyas

Kshatriyas, also known as Chhetris, were the people who spoke Khas Nepali languages. There are several subcastes in Kshatriyas Varna, which include the high-ranking Thakuri and Thapa to others like Pande, Basnet, Pahari, and more.

 

No stratification is based on hierarchy or geography, but most of the Kshatriyas came from the Khas Kingdoms and Gorkha. Thakuris are the supreme sub-caste of the Kshatriyas, while Rana, Thapa, Basnet, Kunwar, and others come along the downline accordingly.

 

Thakuris were the rulers of Nepal for 240 years since Prithivi Narayan Shah unified the whole of Nepal in the 1800s. They were the 'Shree 5'. His descendants, Bahadur Shah, and Prime Ministers like Jung Bahadur Rana, Bhimsen Thapa, and others ensured the sovereignty of Nepal.

 

Rana sub-caste was later upgraded as 'Shree 3' as Prime Minister Junga Bahadur Rana was made the King of two districts; Kaski and Lamjung. Thapas are also a high-class caste since their role has been very important for the country's sovereignty and existence.

 

Apart from that, numerous sub castes like Bista, Bohara, Budathoki, Karki, Khadka, and many more exist.

 

Vaishyas

Vaishya Varna also comes with a wide variety of sub-castes. Some of them are listed below:

 

• Newar Communities and their caste
• Baniya
• Khandelwal
• Oswal
• Agrawal
• Dosar
• Rathi
• Totla

 

Sudras

Some of the sub-castes that prevail in Sudra Varna are:

• Kami 
• Damai
• Das
• Sarki
• Lohar
• Sunar
• Bishwokarma
• Nepali

 

Apart from all, there are sub-strata in society according to culture. Some of them are;

• Matwali
• Tagadhari

 

Jana Jatis | Who Are They?

Jana Jatis are basically the indigenous people in Nepal. Several sub-castes inside Jana Jatis include Tamang, Magar, Gurung, Limbu, Sherpa, and many others. , Indigenous people have their settlements in separate parts of the country, feature their mother tongue, and whose ancestors were the first settlers of their places.

 

According to The National Consultation on Indigenous Peoples of Nepal (1994), Jana Jatis are those:

• Who have distinct and original linguistic and cultural traditions.
• Who are the descendants of the peoples who had established themselves as the first settlers in several parts of Nepal.
• Who have been subjugated in the State's political power set-up
• Whose society is traditionally erected on the principle of egalitarianism

 

Photo: Nepali old man filling brass jar(Gagri)

 

Caste Categories in Different Parts Of Nepal

Nepal has 77 districts, 14 Zones, and 7 States. There are varieties of differences in caste and location. Almost every part of Nepal has been inhabited by all caste and ethnic groups. The term 'Unity In Diversity' is coined from the reality of inclusiveness in this country. 

 

Here are glimpses of some of the structures according to the caste system (Varna, geographic region, occupation, and other aspects are included as a whole) in significant parts of Nepal. Let's explore:

 

Kathmandu is an ancient Newar city rich with Newar culture and traditions. There are many places inside the valley that the Newars wholly inhabit. Besides them, other sub-castes from Brahmin, Kshatriyas, Vaishyas, and Sudras live in this city.

Indigenous groups like Rai, Limbu, and Kirati mainly inhabit eastern Nepal. They have their own culture, language, and tradition and separate geographical areas.

 

Western Nepal is inhabited mainly by the Khas people. Sub-castes like Thakuri and their sub-category live in this region. There are also habitats of Brahmins and Kshatriyas in this region.

Northern Nepal is the home to Sherpa, who has been living there for centuries. Sherpas are believed to have immigrated from Tibet. They have their own mother tongue, culture, and geographic region.

In the Terai region, the southern lowlands of Nepal, you can find the dominance of sub-castes like Tharu, Yadav, Gupta, Mahato, and several others. They, too, have their own culture and languages.

 

Caste System Reforms By Jayasthiti Malla

During the Medieval period in Nepal, the caste structure was so-called weak. It was the same time when King Jayasthiti Malla of Kathmandu came forth with the reforms of the Caste System. History of Nepal indicates his reforms as he re-classified all the castes according to Hindu religion - it is mentioned that King Jayasthiti divided people into four Varnas and sixty-four castes.

 

Since then, Nepal's caste system has flourished as a mushroom in the moist. The scenario of discrimination and untouchability was too on the peak for the same reason.

The medieval period featured occupation-based caste and caste-based social rules. King Jayasthiti had instructed people to adopt only prescribed belongings like dresses, ornaments, and huts.

 

For example, Butchers were instructed to wear sleeveless clothes and avoid hats, shoes, and gold ornaments. The social practices were mentioned in the memoirs of Manu and Yagyavalkya.

 

It appeared that the re-classification of the caste system was disciplined and systematic at that time but in the long run, it led to negative societal impacts.

 

Economic Status of Different Castes in Nepal

The economic status of different castes in Nepal reflects the country's history and its current development. The higher castes have always had better access to education, land, and job opportunities, while the lower castes have been relegated to manual labour and poverty.

 

The theory of Karl Marx is clearly seen in the Nepalese Caste System. Throughout the centuries, the upper caste, considered the high-class people of Nepal, have had access to the available means and resources. In contrast, the lower caste people (with low-class lifestyles) are constantly deprived of them.

 

Brahmin are the subjects of governmental jobs, high-grossing employment, and others. Similarly, Chhetris are still fighting as warriors.

The important thing to notice here is that Vaisyas are a financially privileged caste group since they were engaged in business, agriculture, and entrepreneurship from the medieval period. Communities of Newar and Agrawal are considerably more economically strong in a financial way, unlike other caste groups.

 

The Dalits, also known as "untouchables," occupy the lowest rung of the caste system. They are not only socially ostracized, but they also suffer from economic discrimination. They often do not have access to education or good jobs and live in poverty.

 

But since the wave of modernization has struck Nepal in recent years, people from all caste groups now follow their dream pleasantly. Dalits have a quota system for jobs, education, and other social facilities.

Despite Nepal's modernization and development over the past few decades, the economic disparities between the different castes remain in remote areas. The higher castes continue to enjoy greater opportunities and upward mobility, while the lower castes remain impoverished with little chance for improvement.

 

Challenges of the Caste System in Nepal

Caste Systems are the main reason for several social evils and practices that have been prevailing for centuries. People are treated based on their caste and occupation, which has brought problems of untouchability, inequality, social boycotts, and others.

 

Usually, people from lower caste groups (Sudras) are considered untouchables. Sub-castes like Damai, Kami, Sarki, Bishwokarma, and others fall under this group. Still, in remote areas, people believe that contact with Sudras makes them feel unhealthy and sick.

 

Social beliefs of believing in witches are also a prominent result of the caste system. If we see the statistics, many women from lower caste groups are blamed for being a witch and killed.

 

Similarly, the caste system is also a barrier to marriage for many couples. If a Brahmin boy falls in love with a girl from a Sudra background, then it is a thing to think about a thousand times before taking any steps. We can take an example of the death of Nawaraj Bishwokarma (so-called Dalit), who was stoned to death by the villagers in Jajarkot just because he was in love with the upper caste girl, Sushma Malla Thakuri. Alongside Nawaraj, four of his other Dalit friends, including Tika Ram Sunar, Ganesh Budha, Sandip BK, and Lokendra Sunar, were killed in action.

 

In simple language, inter-caste marriage has not been widely accepted, but things are changing gradually.

 

Current Laws On Discrimination Related to the Caste System In Nepal

Although the caste system has no legal basis, it remains a significant factor in everyday life and continues to be a source of discrimination.

Nepal's current laws prohibit discrimination based on caste. Also, the Constitution does guarantee equality before the law and prohibits all forms of discrimination. In practice, however, caste-based discrimination is still prevalent, particularly in rural areas.

 

There have been some recent efforts to address caste-based discrimination in Nepal. In 2015, the government launched a National Action Plan to Eradicate Caste-Based Discrimination and Untouchability. The Plan includes measures such as awareness-raising campaigns, sensitization training for government officials, and setting up complaint mechanisms for victims of discrimination.

 

Similarly, in 2068 B.S., the government launched The Caste-Based Discrimination and Untouchability Act which assures the following rights:

• Right against untouchability and discrimination
• Right to have equal treatment from the court or other judicial body
• Right to equal access to public services
• Right to marry and choose the bride or bridegroom
• Right to select employment and to work
• Right to have an equal salary for an equal work
• Right to get prompt judicial remedies and appropriate compensation against untouchability and discrimination

 

Despite these efforts, much more needs to be done to address the entrenched discrimination faced by members of lower castes in Nepal.

 

The Impact of Modernization on Nepal's Caste System

The effect of modernization on Nepal's caste system has been mixed. On the one hand, modernization has led to increased social mobility and reduced discrimination based on caste. On the other hand, it has also reinforced caste identity and divisions in Nepali society.

 

Modernization has had both positive and negative effects on Nepal's caste system. On the positive side, modernization has resulted in increased social mobility, as people can now move up or down the caste hierarchy based on their merit. This has reduced discrimination against lower-caste members of society, as they are no longer confined to their traditional roles and occupations.

 

On the negative side, however, modernization has also reinforced caste identity and divisions in Nepali society. With increased social mobility comes increased competition for jobs and resources, which has exacerbated tensions between different castes. In addition, the growth of Nepal's tourism industry has led to a new form of discrimination against lower-caste members of society, who are often seen as "unclean" or "untouchable."

 

Sanskritization And Its Effects On the Caste System

Sanskritization is the process in which low castes seek 'upward' mobility by emulating the rituals of upper castes. This trend has been very vocal in the twice-born castes, especially Newar communities. Changes in customs, ideology, and way of life are shifted to another level after emulating the original ones.

 

We can see many trends of Sanskritization in Nepal throughout the decade. One of the prominent examples is that Newar KaShahis have become Shahis after they took the surname of Thakuri Shahis, who are socially elite groups of Nepal.

 

Similarly, several other low-caste groups are submerging their family names into the high-caste communities and duplicating their culture and tradition.

 

Rates of Inter-Caste Marriage in Nepal

Inter-caste marriage has been very vocal in Nepal in recent years. However, it would be a sin before. People of certain caste groups were not allowed to marry someone from another caste group. For example, Brahmins and Kshatriyas would not marry Vaishyas and Sudras. Marriage was a matter of social pride; no one would risk their pride by marrying someone from a lower caste group.

 

Still, in the modern days, these practices are happening in Nepal, especially in remote areas.

 

Several factors are driving the trend of increased inter-caste marriage in Nepal. One is the increasing education levels and exposure to different cultures that people are experiencing. As more people travel and study abroad, they are exposed to new ideas and ways of life that challenge traditional caste boundaries.

 

Another factor is an economic necessity. With rising living costs, many young people find it increasingly difficult to marry within their caste because they cannot afford the high dowries that are often required. Inter-caste marriages provide a way around this financial barrier and offer opportunities for social mobility.

 

But we can experience that modernization has changed the face of the country, and the government has legalized inter-caste marriage. While many people find it hard to accept, some have already initiated inter-caste marriage and led a happy life. The trend of increased inter-caste marriage in Nepal is positive news for those who believe in equality and social justice. It shows that Nepali society is becoming more open-minded and inclusive and that caste barriers.

 

Even the public figures of Nepal have initiated inter-caste marriage and supported this trend. Some of them are:

• Madan Krishna Shrestha (Newar) and late Yasodha Subedi (Brahmin)
• Baburam Bhattarai (Brahmin) and Hisila Yami (Newar)
• Former Prime Minister Khadga Prasad Sharma Oli (Brahmin) and Rashika Shakya (Newar)

 

Also, entertainment aspects of Nepalese society have been standing with the motive of supporting inter-caste marriage. Several tele-serials like 15 Gatey by Hari Bansha Aacharya and Madan Krishna Shrestha, Bato Muniko Phool, and others have carried out the theme of inter-caste marriage in Nepal.

 

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Is the Caste System Relevant Today?

The caste system is a social hierarchy that has been in place in Nepal for centuries. Though the government has outlawed it, the caste system is still relevant today. The higher castes continue to enjoy privileges and power, while the lower castes are marginalized and face discrimination.

 

The lower castes, including Dalits (untouchables), face many disadvantages. They often do not have access to education or good jobs. They may be discriminated against when seeking medical care or housing. Dalits suffer the worst form of discrimination, known as untouchability. This means they are treated as outcasts and not allowed to interact with people from other castes.

 

Despite these challenges, some lower-caste people have been able to rise in society through hard work and determination. There is hope that someday the caste system will be abolished entirely, and everyone will be treated equally regardless of their caste status. But if you see the current scenario and observe, the caste system still exists in Nepal but is not relevant as it was before, like in the Medieval period or even 20-30 years ago.