Gupta Empire Social Structure: The Gupta Empire was named after the Gupta dynasty which ruled approximately between 320- 550 CE. The Gupta dynasty period is regarded as the Golden Age of India.

Gupta Empire Society

During the Gupta period, there was peace and harmony in the society. The social ranking or caste of a person was decided by the trade or profession of that person. The society was classified in four castes namely; Brahmans, Vaishyas, Kshatriya’s, and Sudras. The Brahmans carried out activities like trade, architecture, service, etc. The Gupta rulers were Vaishyas.

The Kshatriya’s practiced industrial vocation. Sudras were engaged in activities like trade and agriculture. People lived in joint families and the society was primarily male dominating. The women were given secondary position.

Gupta Empire Social Structure

They were expected to obey the instructions given by the male members of the family. They were allowed to obtain an education. However, they were not permitted to participate in any rituals or read sacred texts. During the Gupta Empire period, the incidences of Sati were rare but they took place. The practice of untouchability had become a regular phenomenon during the Gupta Empire period.

Gupta Empire Religion

There were overall prosperity and development in the Gupta era society. The food consumed by the Gupta people was very simple. It is believed that they were strictly vegetarian and excluded onions, garlic, potatoes and wine from their diet.

Entertainment during those days included dances, musical concerts, gambling, animal fights, etc. The religion followed during the Gupta period was Hinduism and Buddhism.