In the varna system of ancient India, the untouchables were known as the Dalits or the "outcastes". They were considered to be outside the four main varnas (social classes) of Brahmin, Kshatriya, Vaishya, and Shudra. The Dalits were often associated with menial or impure occupations such as cleaning, scavenging, and working with leather. Due to prevailing socio-cultural beliefs and prejudices, they faced significant discrimination and oppression from the upper caste members of society.