Varna System in Ancient India was based on occupation, but with time it turned to a rigid caste system. ‘Varna’ literally means group in Sanskrit. With the advent of the Aryans, the ancient Indian society got divided into four sections - Brahmin, Kshatriya, Vaishya, and Sudra. In Hinduism, the Varna System was based on class, colour, guna, and yoga.
The first 3 Varna is called twice born. It implies that they have come of age and are eligible to study Sanskrit and the Vedas and perform Vedic rituals. The thread ceremony marks the second birth among the Indian male. For girls it is during their marriage that a thread is tied round their hands to mark the second birth. Besides Hindus, this custom is also prevalent with the Jains.
Etymology of Varna
“Varna” is a Sanskrit word derived from the term “vr” which mean to cover or envelop. It also denotes classification or choosing something. “Varna” as a word first appeared in Rig veda to represent or distinguish physical appearance, character, complexion, shape, or size. In ancient Hindu epics, the word meant colour, race, tribe, or any species. “Varna system” as caste or social classes was first referred in Manusmriti.
Theoretical classification of Varna system describes the concept as Jati or groups which is further divided into two categories. These include endogamous groups and exogamous groups. While endogamous groups prefer marrying within the same community or varna, exogamous groups are more liberal about social groups and identifies varna based on gotras. Gotra is denotes lineage of a person.