The current hereditary caste system drastically differs from the original varna system described in ancient texts. The Bhagavad Gita (4.13) describes varnas based on qualities (guna) and actions (karma), not birth.
Historical evidence shows the original system was flexible and merit-based. The Manusmriti contains examples of individuals changing varnas through their actions and abilities. Social mobility was common in ancient times, as seen in cases like Valmiki and Vishwamitra.
The current birth-based hierarchy emerged much later due to colonial interpretations and social rigidification. Modern Hindu scholars emphasize returning to the original understanding of varna as a functional division based on individual qualities and choices.
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