Shudra accountant. 19th Century illustration depicting the Shudra caste, represented by an accountant. Shudra is one of the four varnas (castes) of Hindu society. According to ancient texts, the Shudra perform functions of serving the other three varna. This accountant is also from the Kayastha community, traditionally considered to be members of the literate scribe caste. Image from 'Tashrih al-aqvam, an account of origins and occupations of some of the sects, castes and tribes of India' (1825).