Shudras in Ancient India: A Social History of the Lower Order down to circa A.D. 600 c10.210

c10.210

The politico-legal status of the śūdras during this period seems to be a counterpart of their economic position. In contrast to their importance in later Vedic polity they lost their place in the political organization of the period. According to Āpastamba the king could appoint only the āryas, i.e. the members of the first three varṇas as officials in charge of the villages and towns.⁵ Lesser officers serving under them were also required to fulfil the same qualifications.⁶