Question

Describe three characteristics of Sanskritization.

Hint:

The distinction between 'positional change' (for the group) and 'structural change' (for the system) is a crucial analytical point to include in your answer about Sanskritization.

Answer 1

Sanskritization is a process of cultural mobility in the traditional Indian social structure, a concept developed by M.N. Srinivas. Its three key characteristics are:

Process of Emulation: It is a process where a 'low' caste or tribe emulates the customs, rituals, ideology, and way of life of a high, and often, a 'twice-born' (dwija) caste. The group being emulated serves as a 'reference group'.

Leads to Positional Change, Not Structural Change: Sanskritization may lead to an improvement in the position of a particular group within the local caste hierarchy over a generation or two. However, it does not lead to a change in the caste system itself. The system of hierarchy remains; only the position of a specific group within it changes.

A Two-Way Process and Varies by Region: While the main direction is the adoption of 'Sanskritic' or high-caste traits by lower castes, Srinivas also noted that the process is not one-sided. Local 'little traditions' often influence the 'great tradition' as well. Furthermore, the model of Sanskritization is not always the Brahmin; it could be the locally dominant Kshatriya or Vaishya caste.