The society during the Mauryan period, as described by Megasthenes, was stratified into distinct occupations or groups. 

• Though his account reflects some misunderstanding of Indian social structures, it provides valuable insights into societal norms and institutions of the time.

Seven Castes or Occupations in Mauryan Society

Megasthenes noted that Mauryan society was divided into seven categories, which he interpreted as castes but were likely occupational groups:

• • Philosophers: Scholars and spiritual leaders who guided moral and religious principles.
  • Councillors: Advisors and administrative officials who played a vital role in governance.
  • Artisans: Craftsmen responsible for producing goods, including metalwork, pottery, and textiles.
  • Magistrates: Legal authorities managing law and order in the society.
  • Herdsmen: Livestock keepers essential to the agrarian economy.
  • Farmers: The backbone of the economy, responsible for agricultural production.
  • Soldiers: Protectors of the realm, forming the military force of the empire.
• While Megasthenes recorded these divisions, he seemingly confused the concepts of jati (caste), varna (class), and vritti (occupation).

Social Standards and Varna System in Mauryan Society

The Chaturvarna system, comprising Brahmins, Kshatriyas, Vaishyas, and Shudras, remained the primary social structure.

• Brahmins and Kshatriyas, regarded as the “twice-born,” enjoyed special privileges in society.
• Kautilya’s Arthashastra references crossbreed castes, indicating a more complex societal organization.
• The caste system became rigid during this time, making upward mobility nearly impossible.

Lifestyle and Status of Artisans in Mauryan Society

The standard of living during the Mauryan era was relatively high. People relished diverse meals and adorned themselves with gold and silver ornaments.

• Urban life flourished, and craftsmen and merchants held significant societal positions. However, artisans’ status varied by their craft—metalworkers were more esteemed than weavers and potters.

Educational and Technical Advancements in Mauryan Society

Buddhist monasteries emerged as prominent centers of learning. Major educational hubs included:

• • Taxila
  • Ujjayini
  • Varanasi
• Technical education was imparted through guilds, where children learned crafts from an early age.

Family Structure and Role of Women in Mauryan Society

The joint family system was prevalent, promoting unity and shared responsibilities.

• Polygamy existed but was mainly practiced by the royal and elite classes.
• Women were accorded certain rights:
  • Married women owned Stree-Dhana, which included bride-gifts and jewelry.
  • Widows were respected, and their property rights were protected.
  • Crimes against women were met with severe penalties, as noted by Kautilya.
• However, women faced societal discrimination. Practices like sati, though rare, began to emerge.

Slavery in Mauryan Society

Megasthenes claimed that slavery did not exist in India, but historians contest this view.

• Slavery in Mauryan India differed from the harsh systems of Greece and Rome:
  • It was often voluntary and less exploitative.
  • Forced labor existed but was limited in scale, and slaves were treated more humanely.