The caste system in the mauryan period.

According to megasthense the population of India is divided into seven part. 

No one is allowed to marry out of his own caste, or to exchange one profession or trade for another, or to follow more than one business.

 1. Philosophers - This respected group including Brahmins and sramans, focusing on intellectual and religious duties.

2 . Farmers - Making up the majority the population.

3 . Herdsmen and Hunters - This group lived in forest and mountains and were engaged in raising animals and hunting.

4. Artisans and traders - This class included craftmen, manual laborers, merchants, and boatmen.

5. Soldier - A well-trained and equipped military class. 

6. Overseers - Thes officials supervised activities across the kingdom.

7. Councillor - The smallest but most influential class after the philosophers.