In the dialogue from the Majjhima Nikaya, who are the two individuals engaged in the conversation?

King Avantiputta and a disciple of the Buddha named Kachchana

We encounter a thought-provoking dialogue between King Avantiputta and Kachchana (a disciple of Buddha), based on a Buddhist text known as the Majjhima Nikaya. The conversation revolves around the perceptions of caste and social status. Although the story may not be historically accurate, it offers insights into Buddhist attitudes towards varna (caste).

Avantiputta questioned Kachchana's thoughts on Brahmanas who believed they were the superior caste, considering others as inferior, dark-skinned, impure, and not worthy of the same privileges. To this, Kachchana responded by presenting a scenario where a Shudra (considered a lower caste) becomes wealthy. Kachchana asked if another Shudra, a Kshatriya (warrior caste), a Brahmana (priestly caste), or a Vaishya (merchant caste) would treat the wealthy Shudra with politeness.

Avantiputta acknowledged that if a Shudra possessed wealth, others of the same caste or even those of higher castes (Kshatriya, Brahmana, or Vaishya) might serve and respect them as obedient servants, carrying out their orders and speaking politely to them.

Following this, Kachchana raised a thought-provoking question: If the four varnas (castes) behave similarly in this regard, is there truly any inherent difference among them?

Avantiputta agreed with Kachchana, conceding that in this particular aspect, there was no inherent difference between the varnas. The story thus suggests that wealth and status could override traditional caste-based distinctions, and people would be willing to serve and respect others based on their wealth and influence, irrespective of their caste identity. This narrative reflects Buddhist beliefs that promote equality and challenge the idea of caste-based discrimination.