The study of Indian villages has long been associated with the institution of caste because caste has historically shaped social organization, occupation, marriage, rituals, and patterns of interaction. Early sociological studies often emphasized caste as the central feature of rural society. However, modern sociologists argue that Indian villages cannot be understood by looking at caste alone. The concept of class is equally important because economic differences, ownership of resources, income, education, occupation, and access to opportunities significantly influence village life. The combined study of caste and class provides a more comprehensive understanding of social relations, power structures, and social change in rural India. Caste is a hereditary system based on birth that determines an individual's social status. It prescribes social norms regarding occupation, marriage, food habits, and social interactions. In traditional Indian villages, caste regulated the division of labour and established a hierarchy of higher and lower castes. Institutions such as the jajmani system reflected the interdependence among various caste groups. Caste also influenced political participation, religious practices, and access to social resources. Therefore, caste remains an important element in understanding village society. However, the social reality