Avarna communities are those that do not belong to one of the four varnas (Hindu social castes).[1][2].They are also known as Panchama.
Avarana is a Sanskrit term that translates as 'covering' or 'obstruction'. It is considered to be one of the three defects of the mind that hinder spiritual progression. Avarana is a veil of ignorance that dulls the mind and prevents people from seeing their true/higher self. Without lifting the veil of Avarana, it is not possible to know Atman or Brahman.[3]
Communities
- Cherumar
- Ezhuthachan
- Kaniyar
- Kuravan
- Mukkuvar
- Pulayar
References
- ↑ DR Jatava (2011). The Hindu Sociology. Surabhi Publications. p. 92.
- ↑ Yājñika, Acyuta and Sheth, Suchitra (2005). The Shaping of Modern Gujarat: Plurality, Hindutva, and Beyond, p. 260. Penguin Books India
- ↑ "What is Avarana? - Definition from Yogapedia". Yogapedia.com. Retrieved 2021-07-24.