What do you understand by the term sanskritisation ?

Sanskritisation: Cultural Upward Mobility

Sanskritisation, a concept coined by Indian sociologist M.N. Srinivas, refers to the process through which lower-caste or lower-class groups emulate and adopt the cultural practices, rituals, and lifestyle of higher-ranking or dominant social groups. This cultural emulation is often associated with the desire for social upward mobility and a shift toward higher social status.

The term 'Sanskritisation' draws from the idea that Sanskrit, the classical language of ancient India, and associated cultural practices, were historically linked with higher social strata. Through adopting the customs, rituals, and values of these higher-status groups, lower-caste communities aim to enhance their social standing. This process involves changes in dress, language, religious practices, and social behaviors to align with the perceived cultural norms of the socially privileged.

Sanskritisation reflects a complex interplay between cultural aspirations and social stratification, showcasing how cultural practices can be instrumentalized for social mobility within caste-based societies. This concept has been instrumental in understanding the dynamics of social change and identity transformation in the Indian context.