The concept of the Brahmanism originates from the oldest Hindu holy scripture Rigveda where in the Brahmans were assumed the highest position in the social strata. The Manusmriti which is a detailed work about the social structure of the ancient India, clearly talk about the four class caste system. Brahmans who are the priest placed on the top of the pyramidal social structure. Various other ancient Indian scripture also talks about the Brahman superiority; for example the Arthasastra which is a political treatise talks about the privileges of Brahmans over other casts. Through out the history of India, Brahmans dominates the society. They are the priests of Hindu temples. The education and higher leanings were limited only to the Brahmans.
During the time of Hindu Kings Brahmans were the chief advisers of the King and virtually influenced all the political decisions taken by the Kings.
During the time of Muslim rulers they had lost some charm in the society. However, Mughals were accommodating and appointed able Brahmans as advisers. Even during the Muslim rule Brahmans retained the control the religious activities of Hindus.
During the British Raj the Brahmans constituted the highest number of the top jobs especially in Indian Civil Service (ICS).
During the time of Hindu Kings Brahmans were the chief advisers of the King and virtually influenced all the political decisions taken by the Kings.
During the time of Muslim rulers they had lost some charm in the society. However, Mughals were accommodating and appointed able Brahmans as advisers. Even during the Muslim rule Brahmans retained the control the religious activities of Hindus.
During the British Raj the Brahmans constituted the highest number of the top jobs especially in Indian Civil Service (ICS).
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