The special features of Caste System in India can be described on the following heads:
- Firstly, the membership of each is determined by the birth of an individual.
- Secondly, the members of a particular caste cannot marry outside their caste.
- Thirdly, in every caste there are a number of restrictions so far as the food, drink and social intercourse are concerned.
- Fourthly, for every caste there is a hereditary occupation.
- Fifthly, in the caste system there is a hierarchical gradation. In this gradation system to top-most position is occupied by Brahmins, and then comes Kshatriyas, and then Vaishyas and Sudras come in the last.
- Sixthly, change of caste is not possible. An individual can not change his caste.
- Lastly, for each caste there is a specific name and by this name the members of the caste are identified in the society.