Religious Diversity
Ancient India saw the birth of Hinduism, Buddhism and Jainism. Later Islam came into existence through the various conquests of Muslim rulers. Christianity was first spread through one of Christ’s disciples St. Thomas during 1st century AD. But it was spread with rigor through the various missionaries that came along with the Europeans during the 17th Century AD. In spite of obvious differences, all religions intermingled in such a way that even though people follow different gods, customs & language, there was a common life style.
Caste System
Caste system first arose in North India and affected all of India. The ill effects of caste system include child marriage and sati. Women were degraded and reserved for kitchen. Social injustice prevailed all over the country. The lower orders (Shudras & Untouchables) were always given a raw deal. Even Muslims and Christians were affected as converted were regarded as a separate caste. These converts continued to practice some old traditions from their previous religion.
Relevance of Past to Present
Some people want to restore the old pattern of society and culture. This needs a careful understanding of the past. We have to realize that in spite of the growth ancient India was able to achieve, that cannot be used in today’s world of science and technology. Also, ancient India was marked by social injustice. Restoration of old culture will invariably bring back these injustices. Old practices & values still prevail strongly all over the country which hampers growth of the country. Moreover women in the country are still discriminated, although the situation is fast improving. Hence it would be ill advised to restore the social system of the past.
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