In what ways did the caste system affect life in ancient india

Exclusion based Exploitation; Distribution of opportunities, income, welfare access - against lower caste

Explanation:

Indian Caste System is hierarchical division of 'Hindus', in following arrangement [from most superior treated to most inferior treated]

Brahmins : Priests & teachersKshatriyas : Warriors & RulersVaishyas : Farmers, Traders, MerchantsShudras : Labourers & cleanliness workers

Caste System has affected life adversely, based on following characteristics:

Exclusion based exploitation with the lower caste (shudras) : They were not allowed to interact with upper caste people, not allowed to touch also referred as 'untouchability'. Not only this, their presence in any good moment was considered inauspicious. Discrimination of opportunities, income, welfare access for lower caste : They have been employed in low grade jobs; the professions are ascribed (birth given) status, eg - son of a shudra (cleaner) can be only a cleaner. This makes them deprived of all kind of socio economic opportunities & welfare.