What does the term 'Vratya' imply?

It refers to those who are of noble descent but have 'fallen' due to non-observance of the sacred rites and duties of their Varna.

Ancient Indian Social Assimilation

UPSC Archival Analysis

In the Manusmriti, foreigners were assigned the status of 'Fallen Kshatriyas' (Vratyas) to integrate them into the Indian social hierarchy.

Exam Year

2014

Evidence Source

ID: HIS_ANC_2014_50 Ref: Patrick Olivelle, Manu's Code of Law