Caste, Class, and Power

This scholarly work examines the interplay of caste, class, and power in a South Indian village, revealing significant social transformations and enduring inequalities.

The book Caste, Class, and Power offers an in-depth sociological analysis of the changing dynamics between caste, class, and political influence in the village of Sripuram, located in Tanjore District, South India. It places Sripuram within a broader historical, cultural, and economic framework, illustrating its shift from a traditional agrarian society marked by strict caste divisions to a more fluid and stratified social order. The narrative emphasizes the endurance of traditional social structures, such as the physical separation of castes, while also documenting significant transformations, particularly the diminishing hold of caste on economic and political spheres.

In Caste, Class, and Power, the author examines the evolving roles of various castes, particularly focusing on the decline of Brahmin dominance as Non-Brahmin castes gain prominence in political and economic realms. The introduction of modern political frameworks, including panchayats and political parties, has played a crucial role in this transition. The book reveals the complex relationships among caste, class, and power, highlighting how these hierarchies, once intertwined, are now showing signs of divergence. While caste continues to shape social interactions, factors like economic growth, education, and increased political engagement are facilitating movement across traditional boundaries.

Moreover, the analysis sheds light on the rising participation of Non-Brahmins and Adi-Dravidas in education and governance, while also addressing the persistent inequalities faced by the Adi-Dravidas, who continue to experience economic and social marginalization. Through its thorough exploration, Caste, Class, and Power provides critical insights into modernization, social mobility, and the lasting impacts of traditional systems in rural South India.