Significance of Untouchable
The term "Untouchable" in the context of Vaishnavism and Indian society refers to individuals or communities deemed outside the traditional caste system, often marginalized and facing social stigma and discrimination. Historically, these groups, such as the Candalas, have been considered impure and unworthy of contact, restricted from sacred rituals and societal participation. Despite these challenges, the idea of spiritual elevation through practices like night worship exists. Notable literature, such as Mulk Raj Anand's works, sheds light on their struggles and the quest for dignity amidst systemic injustices.
Synonyms: Inaccessible, Unapproachable, Unassailable, Impassable, Sacred
In Dutch: Onaantastbaar; In Finnish: Koskematon
The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.
Hindu concept of 'Untouchable'
The term "Untouchable" in Hinduism identifies individuals, typically from lower castes, deemed impure and socially ostracized, prohibited from sacred rituals, and marginalized within the caste hierarchy, yet capable of spiritual elevation through specific practices.
From: Manusmriti with the Commentary of Medhatithi
(1) Items or areas that are considered impure and therefore should not be touched, indicating a hierarchy of cleanliness.[1] (2) A term describing individuals who are excluded from the social hierarchy, often associated with low-status castes.[2] (3) Referring to things or substances that are considered impure or unclean, making them off-limits for contact by certain groups.[3]
From: Yajnavalkya-smriti (Vyavaharadhyaya)—Critical study
(1) A broader term for groups, including the Candalas, who were deemed socially unacceptable and faced discrimination due to caste rules.[4]
From: Skanda Purana
(1) Individuals considered impure or unworthy of physical contact, as per religious rules.[5] (2) Individuals from marginalized communities in the traditional varna system, who can also attain spiritual elevation through the observance of night worship.[6]
From: Ramayana of Valmiki
(1) A reference to someone who cannot approach sacred rituals, drawing a parallel to Ravana's unworthiness to approach Sita.[7]
From: Padma Purana
(1) Individuals considered outside the traditional caste system, often treated with social stigma, whom the wise should avoid.[8]
From: Dasarupaka (critical study)
(1) A term used for people from lower castes who were socially ostracized and not allowed to enter villages.[9]
From: Chaitanya Bhagavata
(1) A social group considered outside the caste system, traditionally marginalized and excluded from societal rituals.[10]
From: Harshacharita (socio-cultural Study)
(1) A term referring to individuals, specifically candalas, who were regarded as outside conventional caste structures and often faced social ostracism.[11]
The concept of Untouchable in local and regional sources
Untouchable refers to marginalized communities historically discriminated against in India, characterized by societal exclusion and atrocities. Mulk Raj Anand's novel illustrates these struggles, paralleling Gandhi’s efforts to uplift and reform the plight of these individuals.
From: Triveni Journal
(1) A term used to describe the lowest caste in India, central to Anand's writing and activism highlighting social injustices.[12] (2) A marginalized segment of Indian society, historically subjected to severe social and economic discrimination.[13] (3) A novel that addresses caste discrimination and societal cruelty through the experiences of Bakha, reflecting themes of innocence and the search for dignity amid internal and external struggles.[14] (4) A term describing people from lower castes in India who have faced historical societal discrimination.[15] (5) A social group in India that Viresalingam aimed to uplift and integrate by providing educational opportunities.[16]
From: Bhaktavijaya: Stories of Indian Saints
(1) A term used to refer to individuals from a marginalized social group, often subject to discrimination and prejudice.[17] (2) Refers to socially marginalized groups in society, representing a fall from grace or higher social order.[18]
From: Folk Tales of Gujarat (and Jhaverchand Meghani)
(1) A term used to refer to the historically marginalized communities in India, whose rights and social status prompted significant reform movements.[19]
From: Folk Tradition of Bengal (and Rabindranath Tagore)
(1) A term used to describe marginalized communities in society that faced discrimination and exclusion.[20]