Dive into the intricate social fabric of a North Indian village with this essential ethnography. Gloria Goodwin Raheja redefines understanding of the Indian caste system, exploring ritual and gift-giving traditions to illuminate the dominant caste’s position. Challenge hierarchical interpretations and discover how social meanings, rather than pure ideology, shape caste dynamics. This book is a vital resource for scholars, students of anthropology, sociology, and South Asian studies, offering profound insights into India’s cultural and social structures.