Question

Which of the following statements is incorrect about the duties as laid down in Manusmriti for the Chandalas?

(a) They had to live on the outskirts of the village.

(b) They had to use discarded utensils.

(c) They were supposed to wear old clothes of the villagers and ornaments made from shells.

(d) It was their duty to serve as executioner and dispose of the bodies of those who had no relatives.

Answer 1

(c) They were supposed to wear old clothes of the villagers and ornaments made from shells.

The Manusmriti laid down what it described as the duties of the chandalas. They were expected to live outside the village; use discarded bowls, with dogs and donkeys as their wealth. They were to wear the clothes of the dead, and eat out of broken dishes; wear ornaments of black iron, and wander constantly.