The hierarchy based on caste system prevailed in medieval period too. The Brahmins enjoyed a higher status. Increase in the number of castes was a major feature of this period. The newly formed occupational groups gradually evolved as castes.
Similar to that in North India, the castes in South India were Idankai and valenki. Even though there was economic progress in medieval period, very less could get benefit from it. Majority were affected by poverty. Caste system and slavery intensified inequalities in the social set up.
