A Nation of Baniyas
The caste system, once deeply rooted in our social fabric, was never just about hierarchy it was about roles. Each group had a purpose. The Brahmins were the keepers of knowledge, the Kshatriyas upheld defence and order, the Vaishyas managed trade, and countless other communities contributed their unique skills to the rhythm of society. It wasn’t perfect many were unfairly confined to demeaning work but it functioned as a structure of shared responsibility. As the country evolved, so did its people. The oppressed sought dignity and new beginnings, and slowly, merit replaced birth as the key to progress. But merit brought along its own kind of chaos. Generations moved away from their traditional callings, often without the same depth of skill or passion. Everyone wanted to reinvent themselves many, in fact, wanted to be businesspeople. The spirit of enterprise became universal. From teachers to doctors, artists to athletes, the collective dream turned singular: make money. What was onc...