During the Hindu Vedic period, value systems and social connections were primarily influenced by caste divisions. Members of different castes were expected to act in a manner that was deemed appropriate, adhering to the Varna system, which upholds disparities in values and types of work. Although the Indian constitution prohibits the practice of ‘untouchability’ in relation to the caste system, it continues to manifest in various forms within the contemporary society itself. A significant number of individuals remain unaware that caste-based discrimination persists in India, where certain animals still bear caste-related and derogatory names. For example, terms that disrespect specific castes have been widely used in both biological and social contexts. This article explores few uncommon names of animals that reflects caste-based discrimination or caste privilege, alongside more neutral terms currently used in India.
Narasimmarajan et al. (2026) studied this question.