The Cambridge History of India, Vol. I: Ancient India v1.c15.222

v1.c15.222

A caste may, therefore, be defined as an endogamous group or collection of such groups bearing a common name and having the same traditional occupation, who are so linked together by these and other ties, such as the tradition of a common origin and the possession of the same tutelary deity, and the same social status, ceremonial observances and family priests, that they regard themselves, and are regarded by others, as forming a single homogeneous community. (*Census Report*, 1911, I, p. 367.)