Table of Contents
Who are the Brahmins today?
The Brahmin Caste Today. Today, the Brahmins comprise about 5\% of the total population of India. Traditionally, male Brahmins performed priestly services, but they may also work in jobs associated with lower castes.
How many castes are in a Brahmin?
The Brahmans are divided into 10 main territorial divisions, five of which are associated with the north and five with the south. The northern group consists of Sarasvati, Gauda, Kannauj, Maithil, and Utkal Brahmans, and the southern group comprises Maharashtra, Andhra, Dravida, Karnata, and Malabar Brahmans.
Why was the Brahmin the highest caste in the caste system?
The Brahmin was the highest caste in the caste system, being only surpassed by the Gods. This shows that the priests were higher than even the kings, being close to godlike according to belief.
What are the restrictions of Brahman caste?
Most Brahman castes are strictly vegetarian, and their members must abstain from certain occupations. They may not plow or handle any impure material, such as leather or hides, but they may farm and do such agricultural work as does not violate these specific restrictions.
What happened to Brahmins in India after 1947?
After India achieved independence in 1947, Brahmans continued to lead the Congress Party and to dominate the central government, but in many states a reaction developed. In southern India, where Brahmans were particularly firmly entrenched, an anti-Brahman movement gathered considerable strength.
What are the 10 divisions of Brahmins?
The Brahmans are divided into 10 main territorial divisions, five of which are associated with the north and five with the south. The northern group consists of Sarasvati, Gauda, Kannauj, Maithil, and Utkal Brahmans, and the southern group comprises Maharashtra, Andhra, Dravida, Karnata, and Malabar Brahmans.