• The caste structure intensified throughout the Gupta era. The apex of society was occupied by the Brahmins. 
• The emperors and other wealthy individuals showered them with presents. During this time, the practice of untouchability had just started. The untouchables are referred to as chandalas. They lived outside the village and dealt in unclean jobs such as scavenging or butchery. 
• The Chinese traveler Fa-Hien tells us that whenever they entered the towns or market places they would strike a piece of wood to announce their arrival, so that the others might not touch them and get polluted.

Position of Women

• The status of women continued to decline in Gupta period. The main reason for the subordination of women was their complete dependence on men for their livelihood. The women were not entitled to inherit property. However, she had full right on her stridhana i.e. the presents received by the bride at the time of her marriage. The free representation of females in art suggest that there was no purdah system in the society. However, there is evidence of the presence of sati system.

Religion

• In terms of religion, the Gupta era was dominated by Brahmanism. It had two subsectors: Saivism and Vaishnavism.
• Vaishnavaites made up the majority of the Gupta kings. They carried out Aswamedha sacrifices. These two faiths gained popularity through the adoration of pictures and the celebration of religious holidays with elaborate ceremonies. During this time, religious literature like the Puranas was written. Buddhism and Jainism were neglected while Brahmanism advanced. 
• In the Gangetic valley, Buddhism is said to have declined, according to Fahien. However, a few Buddhist intellectuals, such as Vasubandhu, received support from Gupta kings. Jainism thrived in western and southern India. The Jain Canon of the Swetambras was written during this time, and the Great Jain Council was held at Valabhi.