What is the Similarity Between Caste System and Sumptuary Laws of Europe?
In India though there were no formal sumptuary laws as in Europe, the caste system defined the social codes of subordinates and dominant caste Hindus. These codes had the force of law.
Example, Shanar caste; a subordinate caste were prohibited from wearing a cloth across their upper body, using umbrellas, wearing shoes or golden ornaments. Refusal of Shanar women to abide by these codes in 1820s led to violence.
Even after the intervention of law, the Shanar women could cover their upper body but not like the women of the high caste. Thus like the sumptuary laws the caste system in India favoured the system of privileges.