Vaisyas
Definition
Vaisyas are the third of the four varnas in Hindu society. They were traditionally merchants, farmers, cattle-herders and artisans.
Analogy
Consider Vaisyas as small business owners in a town. They aren't making laws or leading armies but play a crucial role by providing goods and services that keep everything running smoothly.
Related terms
Jati system: A sub-caste system within each varna where people belong to specific occupational groups.
Guilds: Associations of craftsmen or merchants often having considerable power during medieval times similar to Jatis among Vaisyas.
Sanskritization: A process by which lower castes seek upward mobility by emulating rituals and practices of upper castes like Vaisyas or higher.
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