Recasting Caste: An Investigation of Social Reproduction of Jatt Dominance in Punjab

Abstract

ABSTRACT In principle, Sikhism is considered as a casteless religion but this paper attempts to explore the significant presence rather dominance of a caste identity, that is, Jatts in Sikh religion. This is carried out through a longitudinal appraisal of the status of this caste group, spanning from historical times to the present. This paper aims to document the dominance of a caste identity in the Punjab society from the realms of religion to popular music and social movements. Further, this research also addresses how this dominance of a particular caste has a bearing on the status of other castes. We also cater to the question about how these practices of dominance reproduced across different spheres. This attempt helps us making for a framework in assessing social location of any caste group. By employing methods such as participant observation and open‐ended interview method, we try to document the same through relevant events.