The castes are hereditary groups with fixed traditional occupation, observing commensal prohibitions and social restriction on interaction. It is believed that there are about 3,000 castes in India. These castes are grouped as upper castes (like Brahmins, Rajputs, Baniyas, Kayasthas, etc.), intermediate castes (like Ahir, Sunar, Kurmi, etc.), and lower castes (like Dhobi, Nai, etc.). There are also untouchable castes (like Chuhra, Bhangi, Raigar, etc.). The castes are linked with the four Varnas (Brahmins, Kshastriyas, Vaisya, and Sudra) for determining the status in ritual hierarchy.
