Firstly, this isn't exactly news. Hindu texts are full of examples of not just the caste system but all variety of ills and discrimination.<p>Secondly, this one passage is an obscure reference. Contrast this for example against the story of Eklavya[1].<p>Thirdly, this should be seen in the context of story-telling (ie: in the context of mythological fantasy rather than 'endorsement' of any sort)<p>Fouthly, there isn't one authoritative Ramayana, there are more like 300+[2]<p>Finally, why does it even matter what RMS cites (doesn't even comment on) ...not even from a primary source ?<p>Is the fact that these examples exist only interesting because RMS cites it ?<p>What's the motive behind sharing this ? Both by RMS and by the OP ?<p>[1]
* <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ekalavya" rel="nofollow">https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ekalavya</a>
* <a href="https://velivada.com/2017/04/27/dalit-history-month-eklavya-adivasi-dalit-rejection-brahminism/" rel="nofollow">https://velivada.com/2017/04/27/dalit-history-month-eklavya-...</a><p>[2] <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Versions_of_Ramayana" rel="nofollow">https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Versions_of_Ramayana</a>