Who Were the Shudras?

Who Were the Shudras? is a book written by B.R. Ambedkar. Ambedkar dedicated the book to Mahatma Jyotiba Phule (1827–1890).

Subject of the book

In this book Ambedkar argues that the Shudras were originally Aryans belonging to the Kshatriya class. Ambedkar further argues that the Brahmins brought about the degradation of the Shudras. Relations have also been drawn between the wide acceptance of Mahars in Hinduism as outcasts and untouchables due to their affirmation to Buddhist practices.

In a separate chapter, Dr. Ambedkar also expresses his view regarding the Partition of India, 1947, stating that if the Muslim community demanded a separate state their interests must be safeguarded as a threat would lay to Indian security and stability due to divided interests, as well as a chance of rebellion soon after the Independence of India.

CONTENTS

Preface

PART I

1. Chapter I - The Riddle of the Shudras
2. Chapter II - The Brahmanic Theory of the Origin of the Shudras
3. Chapter III - The Brahmanic Theory of the Status of the Shudras
4. Chapter IV - Shudras Versus Aryans
5. Chapter V - Aryans Against Aryans
6. Chapter VI - Shudras And Dasas

PART II

1. Chapter VII - The Shudras were Kshatriyas
2. Chapter VIII - The Number of Varnas, Three or Four?
3. Chapter IX - Brahmins Versus Shudras
4. Chapter X - The Degradation of the Shudras
5. Chapter XI - The Story of Reconciliation
6. Chapter XII - The Theory in the Crucible

See also

• Caste system in India
• Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes

External links

• Who were the Shudras?