Here is a brahmana — what is the proof that he is a brahmana? He has got a sacred thread, that’s all. Or thread. It may not be sacred; purchased from the market. So at least we try to give a sacred thread by ceremony. But anyone can purchase a thread from the market, two-paisa worth or one-cent worth, and become a brahmana. “You are a brahmana?” “Yes, you see my sacred thread?” [laughter] Finished. “What you are doing?” “Never mind.” Don’t be such brahmanas, at least in our camp. You must follow the rules and regulations. Don’t show that “I am now doubly initiated, sacred thread.” Don’t cheat in that way.

Srila Prabhupada — June 25, 1976, New Vrindavan