Write a critical essay on Sanskritisation?
The term 'Sanskritisation' was coined by the eminent sociologist M.N. Srinivas. It may be briefly defined as the process by which a ‘low’ caste or tribe or other group takes over the customs, ritual, beliefs, ideology and style of life of a high and, in particular, a ‘twice-born (dwija) caste’.
The process of 'Sanskritisation' was primarily found among Hindus, however, Srinivas argued that it was visible even in sects and religious groups outside Hinduism.
Srinivas argued that the Sanskritisation of a group has usually the effect of improving its position in the local caste hierarchy. It normally presupposes either an improvement in the economic or political position of the group concerned or a higher group self-consciousness resulting from its contract with a source of the 'Great Tradition' of Hinduism such as a pilgrim Centre or a monastery or a proselytising sect.
Through 'Sanskritisation' people want to improve their status through adoption of names and customs of Culturally high placed groups.Sanskritisation as a concept has been critiqued at different levels. This process has been criticised for overstretching social mobility or the scope of lower castes to move up the social ladder.
Explain the theory of relative deprivation, logic of collective action and theory of resource mobilization.
How is colonialism different from earlier forms of conquests? In what ways did it affect Indian society?
