Temple and Occupational Specialization: Identity of Brahmin and Sevayat in Puri, Odisha, India

Abstract

Human as Homo hierarchic us, is conceived to have stratified into hierarchy, either through Varna or caste system. This paper deals with the identity of Brahmin including the priestly castes as well as servicing castes who have occupational specializations in the temple of Lord Jagannath in Puri, Odisha. Here fieldwork has been conducted to investigate the determinants of perceived social status of Brahmins and Sevayats and to see how this perception shapes their identity. The work has been done both in Puri city and Dandamukundapur village under Puri district in Odisha. Occupational specializations in connection with priestly and other temple related activities contribute to the development of new forms of social identities. It brings to the fore the role of sacred centre in the formation of particular identity of the castes in general and Brahmin in particular.