Urbanisation
Urbanisation refers to the process of the growth and expansion of cities and towns, resulting in an increase in the urban population. This phenomenon brought about significant changes in the social fabric of society, especially in the context of caste-segregated patterns of social interaction. Here are the reasons why urbanisation made it difficult for these patterns to survive:

1. Diversity and anonymity:
- Urban areas are characterized by a diverse population comprising people from various castes and communities.
- As cities grew, people from different castes began to live in close proximity to each other, leading to increased interaction and integration.
- The large number of people in urban areas provided anonymity, making it difficult to enforce strict caste-based norms and segregation.

2. Economic opportunities:
- Urbanisation brought new economic opportunities, leading to a shift from agrarian-based livelihoods to jobs in factories, offices, and other urban sectors.
- As people migrated to cities in search of better economic prospects, they had to interact with individuals from different castes in workplaces and markets.
- Economic considerations took precedence over caste-based social hierarchies, weakening the hold of caste segregation.

3. Influence of modern education:
- Urban areas had better access to education and modern ideas.
- Education played a critical role in challenging traditional caste-based norms and beliefs.
- As people became more educated, they started questioning and challenging the discriminatory practices associated with caste segregation.

4. Influence of social reform movements:
- Urban areas became hubs for social reform movements that aimed to eradicate social evils, including caste-based discrimination.
- Reformers like Raja Ram Mohan Roy, Jyotirao Phule, and B.R. Ambedkar emerged from urban centers and actively campaigned against the caste system.
- Their efforts and the growing awareness among urban populations further weakened the caste-segregated patterns of social interaction.

5. Modern infrastructure and communication:
- Urbanisation led to the development of modern infrastructure, such as roads, railways, and communication networks.
- These advancements facilitated the exchange of ideas and information, enabling people to challenge and question traditional caste norms.
- The spread of newspapers, magazines, and other mass media in urban areas also played a significant role in disseminating progressive ideas and thoughts.

In summary, urbanisation brought about diverse social interactions, economic opportunities, access to education, and exposure to social reform movements and modern ideas. All of these factors contributed to the gradual erosion of caste-segregated patterns of social interaction.