Mahatma Gandhi's views on the Varna system evolved over time, reflecting a complex interplay of traditional Hindu thought, social reform, and his commitment to non-violence and equality. Initially, Gandhi accepted the theoretical framework of Varna as a functional division of labor, but he vehemently opposed the practice of untouchability and the hierarchical, birth-based caste system (Jati) that had become entrenched in Indian society.

Varna as a Functional Division: Gandhi distinguished between Varna and Jati. He viewed Varna as an ancient, ideal concept of social organization based on inherent qualities (guna) and actions (karma), where individuals performed duties according to their natural aptitudes and vocations. In this ideal sense, Varna was not about superiority or inferiority but about complementary functions necessary for societal harmony. He believed that the four Varnas (Brahmin, Kshatriya, Vaishya, Shudra) represented different types of service to society, and all were equally honorable.

Rejection of Birth-Based Hierarchy and Untouchability: Crucially, Gandhi rejected the idea that Varna was determined by birth. He argued that Varna should be based on one's character and work, not lineage. More forcefully, he condemned untouchability (Aparshyata) as a heinous blot on Hinduism and humanity. He called 'untouchables' 'Harijans' (children of God) and dedicated a significant part of his life to their upliftment, advocating for their equal rights, access to temples, and social integration. He saw untouchability as a perversion of the Varna system, a man-made evil that had no sanction in true Hindu scriptures.

Critique of Caste (Jati) System: While he tried to reform Varna, he was a staunch critic of the rigid, hierarchical, and discriminatory caste (Jati) system, which had fragmented Indian society and led to immense suffering. He believed that the caste system, with its numerous sub-castes and strict rules of endogamy and commensality, was a major impediment to national unity and social justice. He advocated for inter-caste dining and marriage, though his primary focus remained on eradicating untouchability.

Emphasis on Dignity of Labor: Gandhi's philosophy emphasized the dignity of all labor, including manual labor. He practiced and promoted 'bread labor,' where everyone should engage in some form of physical work. This was a direct challenge to the caste system, which often denigrated certain occupations and those who performed them.

Evolution of Views: While Gandhi initially sought to reform the Varna system, his later writings and actions increasingly leaned towards a more radical rejection of its practical manifestations, especially the discriminatory aspects. He recognized the deep-seated injustices perpetuated by the caste system and worked tirelessly to dismantle them, even if he held onto an idealized, non-hierarchical interpretation of Varna as a functional principle.

In summary, Gandhi's views on the Varna system were nuanced. He accepted an idealized, non-hierarchical, and functional interpretation of Varna, but he unequivocally condemned the birth-based, discriminatory caste system and fought relentlessly against the evil of untouchability, seeing it as a moral imperative for a just and equitable society.