Sanskritisation is a term coined by M.N. Srinivas. It refers to the process by which a 'low' caste or tribe or other group takes over the customs, ritual, beliefs, ideology and style of life of a high and, in particular, a 'twice-born (dwija) caste'.

The impact of Sanskritisation is many-sided. Its influence can be seen in language, literature, ideology, music, dance, drama, style of life and ritual. It is primarily a process within the Hindu space, though Srinivas argued it was visible even in sects outside Hinduism. It operated differently across regions. Where a highly Sanskritised caste was dominant, the entire region underwent Sanskritisation. In regions where non-Sanskritic castes were dominant, their influence was stronger, termed as 'de-Sanskritisation'.

However, Sanskritisation has been criticised at different levels. First, it has been criticised for exaggerating social mobility. It leads to no structural change but only positional change of some individuals. Inequality continues to persist though some individuals may improve their positions within the unequal structure.

Second, the ideology of Sanskritisation accepts the ways of the 'upper caste' as superior and that of the 'lower caste' as inferior. Therefore, the desire to imitate the 'upper caste' is seen as natural and desirable.

Third, Sanskritisation seems to justify a model that rests on inequality and exclusion. It appears to suggest that to believe in pollution and purity of groups of people is justifiable or all right.