Question

Before Melissa's trip to India, she read a book that said India has four main castes. When she arrived, she asked Veda, an Indian woman, "Which of the four castes does your family belong to?" Veda smiled and corrected Melissa, pointing out that:

a. Over time, the caste system has evolved into thousands of subcastes.
b. The four castes are still prevalent.
c. India no longer follows the caste system.
d. Caste distinctions are only in rural areas.

Answer 1

Veda likely explained that the caste system has evolved into thousands of subcastes, extending beyond the original four main castes, and although officially dismantled, its effects continue to be felt in social structures and interactions.

Step-by-step explanation:

When Melissa asked Veda which of the four castes her family belonged to, Veda's correction implies that the caste system in India has evolved substantially from its original structure. While the caste system was formally abolished, its influence persists. Although Veda's specific answer is not provided in the information given, we can infer from the historical context that the original four main castes have expanded into thousands of subcastes over time, particularly due to the complex nature of the system and its social implications in various regions.

Initially, the caste system in India was deeply rooted in the hierarchy established by the Aryan peoples, with four main varnas: the Brahmins (priests and scholars), the Kshatriyas (warriors and rulers), the Vaishyas (merchants and traders), and the Shudras (servants and laborers). Over time, this system became more intricate, leading to the creation of numerous subcastes that dictated social interactions, including marriage and occupation.