The term "Mlecchas" historically referred to groups of people who were perceived as speaking in an uncultured or incorrect manner, often associated with tribes or communities considered foreign or outside the established social order. In ancient texts like the Shatapatha Brahmana and the Mahabharata, they were often portrayed as outsiders or adversaries to the Vedic culture.
According to various accounts, Mlecchas were believed to
have originated from various mythological sources. For instance, the
Mahabharata mentions that they were produced from the tail of the celestial cow
Nandini, associated with the sage Vasistha, and were involved in conflicts with
figures like Vishwamitra. They were depicted as residing in coastal regions,
with Anga being mentioned as one of their kings.
Throughout ancient Indian literature, there are instances
where Mlecchas are depicted as adversaries or troublemakers, such as their
alleged plundering of wealth from Yudhisthira's sacrificial arena after the
Ashvamedha sacrifice in the Mahabharata. Additionally, there are prophecies,
like in the Bhavishya Purana, suggesting the eventual destruction of Mlecchas
by Kalki, a future incarnation of Vishnu.
Over time, the perception and treatment of Mlecchas evolved.
By the time of the Bhavishya Purana (circa 900 CE), they appear to have been
absorbed into the social hierarchy as a caste positioned at the lowest rung.
They were often marginalized and subjected to derogatory stereotypes, such as
being labeled as consumers of cow flesh and engaging in practices like selling
their children for financial gain. Despite this marginalization, they were
sometimes allowed to participate in certain religious practices, such as
worshiping clay images of deities like Devi and other gods.
In summary, Mlecchas represent a complex and multifaceted
concept in ancient Indian society, embodying notions of cultural otherness,
social hierarchy, and religious conflict. Their portrayal in texts reflects
broader themes of identity, power dynamics, and the evolving nature of social
structures in ancient India.