History of Technology in India, Vol. I: From Antiquity to c. 1200 A.D. v1.c13.s5.3

v1.c13.s5.3

Based on the caste system the technology of smelting and working of specific metals was being practiced by a particular group of the tribals who were maintaining the details of the knowledge in their family, from generation to generation. The technological practices were considered to be a highly guarded family secret and a religious pursuit of very high order. These stringent beliefs and rituals of the society are also responsible for the perishing of many ancient art and craft.