jatis

(noun)

The term used to denote the thousands of clans, tribes, religions, communities and sub-communities in India.

Related Terms

Examples of jatis in the following topics:

  • The Caste System

    • Each varna was divided into jatis, or sub-castes, which identified the individual's occupation and imposed marriage restrictions.
    • Marriage was only possible between members of the same jati or two that were very close.
    • Both varnas and jatis determined a person's purity level.
    • Members of higher varnas or jatis had higher purity levels, and if contaminated by members of lower social groups, even by touch, they would have to undergo extensive cleansing rites.