[Pramāṇa](https://indike.org/pramana/) › [Studies](https://indike.org/pramana/ins) › [Polity, law and society](https://indike.org/pramana/ins.polity) › [Shudras in Ancient India: A Social History of the Lower Order down to circa A.D. 600](https://indike.org/pramana/ins.polity.sharma-1958) › c11.30 # Shudras in Ancient India: A Social History of the Lower Order down to circa A.D. 600 c11.30 Śūdras in Ancient India: A Social History of the Lower Order down to circa A.D. 600 c11.30 - **Language:** English ### [c11.30](https://indike.org/pramana/ins.polity.sharma-1958.c11.30) In defining the functions of the śūdra varṇa Kauṭilya uses the Dharmasūtra terminology. He states that the śūdra’s means of livelihood is derived from his service of the twice-born.⁴ But they can support themselves by the professions of artisans, dancers, actors etc.,⁵ which are apparently independent occupations not implying the service of the twice-born. - [Previous: c11.29](https://indike.org/pramana/ins.polity.sharma-1958.c11.29) - [Next: c11.31](https://indike.org/pramana/ins.polity.sharma-1958.c11.31) - [Up: c11](https://indike.org/pramana/ins.polity.sharma-1958.c11) ## Cites (1) - [Kauṭilīya Arthaśāstra](https://indike.org/pramana/in.niti.artha.kautilya) — Kauṭilya, Sanskrit --- Source: [https://indike.org/pramana/ins.polity.sharma-1958.c11.30](https://indike.org/pramana/ins.polity.sharma-1958.c11.30) · Pramāṇa