What is the Varna system?

 

What is the Varna system?

The Varna system is a social system of stratification which divides the society into various strata based on their social and economic abilities. This hierarchical system was prevalent during the early Vedic period.

The earliest reference to the varna system can be found in the Tenth mandala of the Rig Veda. Unlike the caste system, the varna system was not rigid, i.e., it allowed the social mobility of an individual. Under this system, the individuals were classified into 4 categories, i.e., Brahmins, Kshatriyas, vaishyas, and the Shudras. Each Varna had to follow its obligations and adhere to the

varna norms.