The phrase ‘Caste System’ appears to be an important marker phrase of identification for India, especially for Hindus. In fact, Nicholas Dirk’s famous book opens with the comments “When thinking of India it is hard not to think of caste”. The use of this phrase ‘Caste System’ is so ubiquitous that most Hindus today accept it as a fact that the ‘Caste System’ is unique to Hindus, is discriminatory and it must be eradicated. A recent high profile caste discrimination case in the United States is an example of the global nature of this issue. In this context and with the evolution of 'Critical Caste theory', it appears that in any interaction between two Hindus, there could potentially be a latent element of the ‘Caste System’ dynamic.
This book explores some fundamental questions such as ‘ What is this so-called ‘Caste System’ ?’, ‘What is its definition?’ , ‘When and how was it started?”, ‘How was it propagated?’, ‘Is it unique to India and Hinduism?’ , by examining primary evidence from various sources. An important insight is that many of the popular notions about the so-called ‘Caste System’ are not supported by factual evidence. In short, the so-called ‘‘Caste System’ ’ appears to be a product of western imagination. For example, the myth that Brahmins created , instituted the ‘Caste System’ and imposed it on the non-Brahmin population has been categorically refuted by Babasaheb Dr. B.R. Ambedkar himself. Yet, the myth is popular even today.
This book engages critically to debunk many popular myths and fake narratives about this so-called ‘Caste-System’. The goal is to ensure the future generations of Bharatiyas are aware of the true history, can identify and challenge fake narratives and above all, avoid growing up with a sense of guilt and avoid potential ‘self-hate’. With the global focus on ‘Caste System’ and the legal, legislative discussions around it, this book could prove to be useful for the Global Hindu diaspora to navigate ‘Caste System’ related discussions in their countries.
Caste-icide refers to the process of weaponising the ‘Caste System’ framework in order to serve as an enabler for a cultural genocide. Although hyphenated in the title, we refer to it as "Casteicide" throughout the book. This book examines the purpose of caste narratives, as well as the mainstreaming of this false narrative, especially during the last two centuries. We give arguments for all major assumptions, as well as refutations of the "logical" reasons for a ‘Caste System’ , which are commonly used to justify contemporary narratives. We urge the reader to examine each of these with an open mind. It was our experience while formulating this book that because the ‘Caste System’ myth is well ingrained, even many Sanatana Dharmics struggle to comprehend that they have been effectively misled for years.
Every individual, family, home, and forum must confront the ‘Caste System's’ fabricated narrative. Its deeply ingrained character is eroding the basic fabric of Sanatana Dharma. We need to recognise the significant harm caused by normalising this Caste System narrative as the factual narrative of our civilisation.
“Paramasattee” - The name literally signified “heavenly virtue or strength;” This idol of “Shakthi” was worshipped in South Travancore until the 1830’s before it was partly destroyed and later shipped to London. Currently, it is with the Missionary Museum, London.
Below is from colonial writings, 1837.
“Near this village, Patterakalee’s temple was situated; and when it was determined to destroy it, in November last, we assembled very early in the morning for the purpose.”
“….The mamatee or Indian spade was produced and the images were speedily defaced:”
“... the image of paramasattee was brought out of an adjoining room and we rescued it from the flames with the view of bringing it to England, where it has safely arrived.”
While Bharatiya Culture and Sanatana Dharma was tolerant, accommodative and inclusive of all forms of worship, the Colonial (mis)rule artificially separated many forms of worship in India, describing them as ‘ demonolatory’. As Bharat decolonises its past and rediscovers its heritage, it might eventually pave the way for the correct understanding of such forms of worship. The cover picture depicts the image of ‘ Paramasattee’ , the Goddess Shakthi as part of the eternal tree of Bharathiya Culture and Sanatana Dharma.
Prologue
1 Casteicide : The Civilisational context
2 Pillar 1 - Racial Division of the Bharatiya Civilisation
3 Pillar 2 - The “Aryans Oppressed the Indigenous” Narrative
4 Pillar 3 - The “Caste Discrimination” Narrative -I
5 Pillar 3 - The “Caste Discrimination” Narrative- II
6 Pillar 3 - The “Caste Discrimination” Narrative- III
7 Narrative of Varna and Caste Hierarchy
8 Homo Hierarchicus - A review
9 ‘Caste System’ - Evolution of the Fake Narrative
10 ‘Caste System(s)’ - A Glocal Phenomenon
11 Untouchability - Different Totems?
12 ‘Caste System’ - Other Ignored Aspects
13 Civilisational Order of Battle (ORBAT)
14 Moving Forward - A Ten-Step Battle Plan
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