Dr. G.S. Ghurye a well known Sociologist and Indologist defines caste in terms of its essential characteristics. They are as follows: 

1.Segmental division by society : Society is divided into various castes. The membership of castes are determined by birth. Therefore, mobility from one caste to another is impossible.

2. Hierarchy: Castes or segments are arranged in terms of hierarchy. According to Dr. Ghurye, castes are graded and arranged into a hierarchy on the basis of the concept of ‘purity and pollution’.

3. Restriction on feeding and social intercourse : This fact of separation is reinforced by the notion of ‘purity and pollution’. Each caste imposes restrictions on its members with regard to food and social intercourse. 

4. Differential civil and religious privileges and disabilities : In a caste society there is an unequal distribution of privileges and disabilities among its members. The higher castes enjoy all privileges and lower caste suffer from all kinds of disabilities. 

5. Lack of unrestricted choice of occupation : Choice of occupation is not free under caste system. Occupations are hereditary and the members of the caste are expected to follow their traditional occupation. 

6. Endogamy : Endogamy is the essence of caste system. Every caste of sub-caste insists that its member should marry within the group.