Exploring the Origins of Untouchability in Ancient India: A Critical Analysis by B.R. Ambedkar

B.R. Ambedkar, a prominent jurist and social reformer, delved into a complex social issue with his seminal work, 'The Untouchables.' This book offers a deep exploration into the roots of untouchability, presenting theories and analyses that challenge and redefine historical narratives. Through meticulous research, Ambedkar presents his findings in a manner that is both enlightening and thought-provoking.

Introduction to Untouchability in Ancient India

In 'The Untouchables,' B.R. Ambedkar examines the various theories that explain the origins of untouchability. These theories, rooted in racial, occupational, religious, and cultural contexts, offer diverse perspectives on the social stratification present in ancient India.

The Racial Theory of Untouchability

The Racial Theory is based on the popular 'Aryan Invasion Theory.' According to this theory, Brahmins were the Aryans who invaded India from Europe, subjugating and enslaving the native Dravidians, Nagas, or Dasas. However, Ambedkar strongly refutes this theory. He presents anthropometric evidence to show that Brahmins and untouchables belong to the same race. Furthermore, the concept of the original inhabitants of India is also debunked, suggesting that both groups migrated to India from Central Asia.

The Occupational Theory of Untouchability

The Occupational Theory posits that untouchability arose because untouchables used to do filthy/dirty/unclean jobs. However, Ambedkar points out that in ancient times, all four varnas (Brahmins, Kshatriyas, Vaishyas, and Shudras) performed impure and unclean jobs, including scavenging. This theory is thus dismissed as an inadequate explanation for the social stratification in ancient India.

The Religious Theory of Untouchability

The Religious Theory is divided into two parts. First, it discusses the role of Hindu scriptures in the phenomenon of untouchability, and second, it explores the rift between Brahmins and Buddhists. Ambedkar distinguishes between the 'impure' mentioned in Hindu scriptures and the Untouchables. Only a few classes of impure people are mentioned in the Hindu 'shastras,' while the scheduled castes’ list includes 429 castes. The overlap in these lists is minimal, indicating that these groups were not the same.

In the second part, Ambedkar argues that while the rift between Brahmins and Buddhists contributed to the phenomenon of untouchability, it was not the primary reason. This is because not all Untouchables were Buddhists, and not all Buddhists were Untouchables.

The Beef Eating Theory of Untouchability

According to Ambedkar, the theory of beef eating provides a more compelling explanation for untouchability. He argues that untouchables were primarily the communities that consumed dead cows. This practice was considered sacrilegious and apostate by the Brahmins, who considered cows as sacred. Thus, the practice of beef eating by untouchables was the main reason for the social disassociation between them and the Brahmins in the past.

Ambedkar’s work in 'The Untouchables' provides a nuanced and comprehensive analysis of the roots of untouchability, challenging existing theories and offering fresh insights into a deeply entrenched social issue.

Key Takeaways:

The racial theory of untouchability does not hold up under scrutiny, as anthropometric evidence shows that Brahmins and untouchables belong to the same race. Occupational theory fails to account for the fact that all varnas performed dirty jobs. The religious theory, while significant, cannot be the primary reason for untouchability, given the complex interplay between different communities. Brahmins considered the beef eating practice of untouchables as blasphemous, leading to their social exclusion.

Conclusion

Ambedkar’s work in 'The Untouchables' challenges our understanding of untouchability, providing a critical analysis that moves beyond mere conjecture to solid evidence and reasoning. His insights continue to be relevant in today’s society, offering valuable lessons on social reform and the persistent need for equality and justice.