Caste has been one of the most enduring institutions of Indian society, traditionally characterized by hereditary membership, endogamy, occupational specialization, social hierarchy, and restrictions on commensality and social interaction. In contemporary India, however, the caste system has undergone significant changes due to social, economic, political, and cultural transformations. While caste has not disappeared, its nature, functions, and expressions have changed considerably. It has shifted from being a rigid system of social stratification to a more dynamic institution influenced by democratic politics, education, industrialization, urbanization, and economic development. The traditional caste system was based on the principles of purity and pollution, where each caste had a predetermined social status and occupation. Social mobility was extremely limited because one's caste was determined by birth. However, modern India has witnessed increasing opportunities for individuals and groups to improve their social and economic position. Constitutional safeguards, affirmative action policies, educational expansion, and employment opportunities have weakened many traditional restrictions. Although caste