Sanskritisation: M.N. Srinivas' Ideas on Social Transformation

Preface:

In the realm of sociological research, the concept of "Sanskritisation" has emerged as a significant framework to understand social mobility and cultural change in India. Coined by renowned sociologist Mysore Narasimhachar Srinivas, popularly known as M.N. Srinivas, Sanskritisation refers to the process through which lower castes or communities adopt the customs, rituals, beliefs, and practices of higher castes, thus aspiring to achieve a higher social status. Srinivas' concept has proven instrumental in analyzing the dynamics of social transformation and stratification in Indian society. This blog post delves into the ideas of Sanskritisation put forth by M.N. Srinivas and examines its implications.

Brief Introduction to M.N. Srinivas:

Born on November 16, 1916, in Mysore, India, M.N. Srinivas is widely regarded as one of the pioneers of modern sociology in India. His extensive research and writings focused on various aspects of Indian society, including caste, religion, social change, and village studies. Srinivas held teaching positions at several prestigious universities, including the University of Mysore and the University of Delhi. He was awarded the Padma Bhushan, one of India's highest civilian honours, for his significant contributions to sociology. Srinivas' seminal work, "Social Change in Modern India," published in 1966, introduced the concept of Sanskritisation and became a cornerstone of sociological scholarship.

Understanding Sanskritisation:

Sanskritisation, as conceptualized by M.N. Srinivas, revolves around the idea that social mobility in Indian society is not solely dependent on economic factors but is deeply influenced by cultural and ritual practices. According to Srinivas, lower caste communities in India seek upward mobility by imitating and adopting the customs, traditions, and values of higher castes. By doing so, these communities aim to increase their social prestige, status, and acceptance within the broader social framework.

Key Features of Sanskritisation:

1. Ritual Imitation: Sanskritisation primarily involves the emulation of Brahminical rituals, practices, and symbols, such as wearing sacred threads, performing elaborate ceremonies, and adhering to strict codes of conduct associated with the upper castes. Through ritual imitation, lower castes aspire to elevate their social standing.

2. Changes in Lifestyle: Sanskritisation often necessitates changes in lifestyle, including alterations in dietary habits, dress, language usage, and even modes of worship. These changes reflect an attempt to align oneself with the dominant upper castes and their cultural norms.

3. Selective Adoption: Sanskritisation is a selective process, wherein lower castes adopt certain aspects of higher caste culture while retaining elements of their own traditions. This process allows for negotiation and adaptation, ensuring a balance between traditional practices and aspirations for upward mobility.

4. Symbolic Capital: Srinivas argued that Sanskritisation provides symbolic capital, enabling individuals or communities to gain recognition and respect from the dominant groups in society. The adoption of higher caste practices and rituals grants them social legitimacy and can lead to improved social and economic opportunities.

Implications and Criticisms:

While Sanskritisation offers insights into the mechanisms of social mobility and cultural change, it has attracted criticism on several grounds. Critics argue that it reinforces the existing hierarchical caste system by perpetuating the dominance of upper castes. Additionally, the emphasis on Sanskritisation overlooks the agency and independent cultural developments within lower caste communities. Critics also contend that the concept does not adequately account for other forms of social mobility or change that occur outside the Brahmanical framework.

Culmination:

M.N. Srinivas' concept of Sanskritization has made significant contributions to the understanding of social transformation in Indian society. By highlighting the role of cultural practices and rituals in shaping social mobility, Srinivas shed light on the complex dynamics of caste and stratification. While the concept has been subject to criticism, its relevance and influence continue to inform scholarly discussions on caste, social change, and cultural adaptation in India. Sanskritisation serves as a valuable framework for comprehending the nuances of social mobility and its interplay with cultural practices in a complex and diverse society like India.