The caste system is a core aspect of the Hindu lifestyle. While many other ancient cultures divided their societies into social classes, the caste system of India is of particular interest because it continues to be a powerful presence in every Hindu's life. There is really limited mobility between castes; members of a caste are structured to eat with, interact with, and marry only members of their own caste. The designation of caste surpasses any and all religious distinctions. Consequently, regardless of one's religion, the obligations of caste still act as a powerful influence in Hindu life. According to Hindu doctrine, the only way to change castes is to be reborn into a new caste after death as a result of good or bad karma so if the Hindu did good deeds in his or her previous life they would go further up the caste if they were at a lower class and vice versa. Four main social groups serve as a part of the Hindu caste system, though a fifth is sometimes included in this system: Brahmans consists of the priests who are charged with ritual functions and the preservation of sacred texts within oral traditions. Shatriyas comprises of the warriors and rulers, who are known for physical strength and power. Vaishyas are the agriculturalist-stockbreeders, who focus on the attainment of material wealth. Merchants, artists, and other professions are included here. Shudras, the servants, are charged with supporting the other three classes. Although technically outside the caste system, another group called dalits referred to as "untouchables" are regarded as lower than the entire caste system. Caste System has been the bane of Hindu society for centuries. The idea of escaping unclean people is logical in a society that was obsessed physical and mental purity. It is normal behavior to stay away from people who are found to be socially deviant, untrustworthy or unfamiliar. It is an expression of our social intelligence and self- 1