Why do you suppose the class distinctions in India were so harsh?

The harsh class distinctions in India, rooted in the ancient Caste System, were reinforced by religious, social, and economic factors over centuries. Caste hierarchies created rigid boundaries that dictated social interactions, occupational roles, and access to resources, making mobility difficult. Additionally, colonial rule exacerbated these divisions by institutionalizing caste identities, further entrenching inequalities. This combination of historical, cultural, and political influences has contributed to the persistence of harsh class distinctions in Indian society.