SANSKRITIZATION Meaning and
Definition
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Sanskritization is a socio-cultural process primarily observed in the Indian subcontinent. It refers to the adoption of certain cultural practices, customs, rituals, and social behaviors of higher castes or classes by lower castes or classes in order to elevate their social status. The term "sanskritization" is derived from the Sanskrit language, wherein "sanskrit" means "cultured" or "refined."
In this process, the lower castes or classes attempt to emulate the practices of the upper castes or classes, including their language, dress, rituals, religious beliefs, and values. This emulation is often propelled by a desire to improve one's social standing and gain acceptance within the higher echelons of society.
Sanskritization can occur in multiple domains, such as language, education, religion, occupation, and social interactions. It typically involves the adoption of Brahmanical rituals, customs, and traditions, as Brahmans traditionally held the highest position in the caste hierarchy. Through this process, the lower castes or classes hope to transcend their own social position and achieve an upward mobility in the hierarchical caste system.
However, sanskritization is not limited to merely copying the practices of higher castes or classes. It also involves adaptation and modification, as the lower castes or classes endeavor to blend their existing customs and beliefs with those of the upper castes or classes. This assimilation can lead to a shift in their own identity and cultural practices, as sanskritization often brings changes in these aspects.
Common Misspellings for SANSKRITIZATION
- aanskritization
- zanskritization
- xanskritization
- danskritization
- eanskritization
- wanskritization
- sznskritization
- ssnskritization
- swnskritization
- sqnskritization
- sabskritization
- samskritization
- sajskritization
- sahskritization
- sanakritization
- sanzkritization
- sanxkritization
- sandkritization
- sanekritization
- sanwkritization
Etymology of SANSKRITIZATION
The word "sanskritization" is derived from the term "Sanskrit", which refers to an ancient Indo-Aryan language of India. The term "sanskritization" was coined in the 1950s by the Indian sociologist M.N. Srinivas to describe a process by which certain lower castes or social groups in India aspire to adopt the customs, beliefs, rituals, and social practices of higher castes in order to gain higher social status.
The suffix "-ization" in "sanskritization" comes from the Greek word "-izein", which means "to make" or "to become". When combined with "Sanskrit", the term "sanskritization" represents the process of "becoming like Sanskrit" or imitating the traits associated with higher castes in Hindu society.
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