The mainstream Hindu Faith, often referred to as Varnāshrama Dharma, has deep roots in the Vedas and Vedic scriptures. Within this framework, the lowest stratum of society, the Shudras—many of whom were unjustly labeled as "untouchables"—faced systematic exclusion and subjugation. They were denied access to Vedic study, participation in yajnas (sacrificial fire-ceremonies), and the acquisition of spiritual knowledge. Even the revered Vedānta Sutra, a sacred text of Varnāshrama Dharma, endorsed such discriminatory practices (Vedānta Sutra 1.3:34-38), and not only the Manusmriti. Moreover, they were barred from entering temples. Women also faced many such deprivations.

In this context, Bhagawān Krishna’s stance in this verse represented a revolutionary departure from the norms of the Vedic religion, signaling a shift toward a more equitable and inclusive Faith—the Bhagavad-Dharma.

The historical conspiracy to exclude Shudras from temple access was indeed long-standing, but it was a creation of human prejudice, not the will of God. An illustrative account from medieval times involves a devoted Shudra shepherd named Kanaka Das in Udupi, Karnataka, who worshiped Lord Vitthal (Bhagawān Krishna). Due to his Shudra status, Brāhmin priests denied him entry to the temple. Undeterred, Kanaka Das paid his obeisance to Bhagawān Krishna by standing outside the temple window. It is said that, moved by Kanaka Das’s deep love and devotion, the Lord’s idol turned toward the window where Kanaka Das stood. This act of divine acknowledgment persists today, as the statue continues to face the window rather than the main entrance door.