[peinapple]

Unlike ageism, the ideal of lighter skin in India has deeper roots in discrimination. Even though the caste system has been abolished, the cultural stigma of being and untouchable is still in effect. Brahmins, who were considered to be the top caste generally posessed fairer skin and if your skin was dark it was usually assumed that you were an untouchable. Untouchables were denied education and rights and were stuck with the jobs that were considered dirty and demeaning. All together there were a total of 4 different castes with brahmins being the highest and the untouchables being the lowest.

So no, this is not like ageism. This is more like slavery, and yes your skin color mattered. Sometimes, though rarely, you might be able to marry up a caste. Maybe if your skin was pale enough.