Caste Discrimination in the Maratha Empire: The Myth and Reality

It is often claimed that the Indian caste system has been eradicated or significantly reduced in recent years. However, this claim is often contested, especially in areas where caste-based discrimination persists. The question arises whether caste discrimination was prevalent during the Maratha Empire, a period that spanned from the 17th to the 19th century. This article aims to explore this topic and investigate if Caste discrimination was a reality during the Maratha Empire.

The Maratha Empire: An Overview

The Maratha Empire was established by Shivaji in 1630 and remained in power until the Third Anglo-Maratha War in 1818. During this time, the term 'Brahman' was synonymous with the highest caste in the Hindu hierarchy, and strict rules governed their lives and interactions with other castes.

Caste System in the Maratha Empire

During the Maratha Empire, the caste system was deeply ingrained in society. It was not merely a social construct but a legal and institutional framework. For instance, only Brahmins were allowed to enter millions of kitchens in Maharashtra. This practice was not a recent development but a long-standing tradition rooted in history.

Historical Evidence of Caste Discrimination

Few individuals have personally witnessed the harsh realities of the caste system. However, as a Brahmin and someone who has witnessed the enforcement of such rules by my grandparents, I can attest to the existence of caste discrimination. The low caste Hindus and Muslims were not just excluded but were also subjected to dehumanizing practices.

Reservations and Poverty

Despite the implementation of government reservations for employment and education over 65 years ago, the condition of low-caste Hindus has not improved. The reservations were intended to uplift these communities but have largely failed to do so. The caste system and its associated discrimination continue to disproportionately affect the lives of lower castes in India, highlighting the persistent need for social reform.

The Term 'Dalit'

The term 'Dalit', which means 'broken' in Marathi, was not in use until the 19th century, specifically around 1880 when the British were formulating various policies to divide and rule India. This term was first used by Jyotiba Phule to describe untouchables and outcasts in society during the Bombay Presidency. However, the Maratha Empire was already established and functioning long before this term was coined.

Colonial Influences and False Narratives

During the British rule, policies were introduced to label entire communities as 'outcasts' or 'untouchables'. This was done through the Thuggee and Dacoity Suppression Acts of 1838, which effectively created a narrative that some communities were inherently criminal or untouchable. This false narrative was further propagated by colonial administrators, who were far from benevolent, and aimed to divide and conquer the Indian population.

Stooges and Propaganda

The British used stooges to propagate their narrative, similar to the way Ram Mohan Roy was utilized in the 18th century. These stooges were often given titles and privileges in exchange for their loyalty. In the Madras Presidency, EV Ramaswamy Periyar served a similar role.

Conclusion

The caste system was a deeply ingrained part of the Maratha Empire, with practices and discrimination that persisted long before the term 'Dalit' was even coined. The conditions of low-caste Hindus in India today do not reflect a recent phenomenon but a long-standing issue rooted in historical and colonial influences. It is crucial to recognize and address these real issues rather than ignoring them.

Keywords: Caste discrimination, Maratha Empire, Brahmin, Dalits