WATANDAR

Language - Urdu (commonly used in Telugu)

Telugu Word - వాటణ్టర్

Among the Marathas, it refers to a holder of hereditary rights, property, or office, along with the associated privileges and emoluments. Example: The 'watandar' family enjoyed tax exemptions and other benefits due to their hereditary position in the village. This term reflects the historical land tenure system and social hierarchy in Maharashtra, where certain families held hereditary rights and privileges associated with their land or position.