Nepal is a landlocked, mountainous country located between India and Tibet. The Nepali awareness of status is also heavily influenced by the Hindu caste system. Although often classified under one term, the ‘caste’ system actually represents multiple overlapping systems of stratification. The ‘varna’ system divides society into four broad categories (varna) that are sometimes described as clusters of castes. These are the Brahmins, Kshatriyas, Vaishyas and Sudras. Each varna is considered to indicate a different level of ‘purity’ – with the Brahmins being the holiest/purest in Hinduism. Nepal is a landlocked, mountainous country located between India and Tibet. The Nepali awareness of status is also heavily influenced by the Hindu caste system. Although often classified under one term, the ‘caste’ system actually represents multiple overlapping systems of stratification. The ‘varna’ system divides society into four broad categories (varna) that are sometimes described as clusters of castes. These are the Brahmins, Kshatriyas, Vaishyas and Sudras. Each varna is considered to indicate a different level of ‘purity’ – with the Brahmins being the holiest/purest in Hinduism. This book presents a conceptual and methodological framework to understand South Asia by engaging with the practices of sociology and social anthropology in Nepal and India. This book will be of interest to students, teachers and researchers of Nepal studies and Global South studies.

Darius Gupta is a dedicated anthropologist specializing in Nepali social and cultural studies. His research explores contemporary issues within Nepali society, examining cultural practices, identity politics, and socio-economic dynamics. Gupta's scholarly contributions provide critical insights into South Asian anthropology, fostering cross-cultural understanding and promoting dialogue on societal complexities.