Mahabharata

by

Vyasa

Sudras are one of the four main classes in society. Typically ranked least important, they are common workers.
Get the entire Mahabharata LitChart as a printable PDF.
Mahabharata PDF

Sudra Term Timeline in Mahabharata

The timeline below shows where the term Sudra appears in Mahabharata. The colored dots and icons indicate which themes are associated with that appearance.
Chapter 1. Beginnings
Dharma Theme Icon
Pursuing Enlightenment Theme Icon
These demons oppressed all classes: Brahmins, Kshatriya, Vaiśyas, and Sudras. Troubled by the demons, Earth sought out Lord Brahma, creator of worlds, for help. Brahma... (full context)
Chapter 12. Tranquility
Dharma Theme Icon
Pursuing Enlightenment Theme Icon
Heroism and Warfare Theme Icon
Grief, Loss, and Mourning Theme Icon
...through these four classes is particularly important for Brahmins but can also be important for Sudras, Vaiśyas, and Kshatriyas. Because a king has so many subjects, he must understand all classes... (full context)
Chapter 13. Instruction
Dharma Theme Icon
Pursuing Enlightenment Theme Icon
Yudhishthira asks more about Brahmins. Bhishma explains how Kshatriyas, Vaishyas, and Sudras can become Brahmins only through rebirth, and it is always difficult. (full context)