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Maharajah Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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maharajah

[ˌmɑːhəˈrɑːdʒə ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

royalty title

The term 'maharajah' refers to a great king or prince in India, historically used to denote rulers of princely states. Maharajahs often preside over vast territories and possess considerable wealth and power. They are typically associated with a royal lineage and hold significant cultural and political influence. The title is still used in some parts of India as a mark of respect among the nobility.

Synonyms

king, monarch, prince.

Examples of usage

  • The maharajah ruled the kingdom with great wisdom.
  • She wore a dress inspired by the lavish outfits of ancient maharajahs.
  • The maharajah's palace was a magnificent structure filled with art.
  • He was a descendant of a famous maharajah known for his generosity.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Historical Significance

  • Maharajahs were influential in the establishment of various kingdoms in India, contributing to the rich tapestry of Indian history and politics.
  • During British colonization, some maharajahs retained power in princely states, negotiating unique relationships with the British Empire, impacting India's path to independence.

Cultural Representation

  • In popular culture, maharajahs are often depicted in movies and literature as flamboyant rulers with luxurious lifestyles, symbolizing wealth and grandeur.
  • They have inspired various art forms, including dance and music, with many traditional Indian dances celebrating the stories of these great kings.

Modern Context

  • Although many maharajahs lost their official titles after India became a republic, several remain influential through their heritage and philanthropic efforts.
  • Certain maharajahs still own vast estates and are involved in tourism, promoting their royal history and heritage.

Symbolism

  • Maharajahs often symbolize pride and royalty in Indian culture, representing the historical significance of local governance before modern nation-states.
  • The lavish lifestyles of maharajahs inspire fascination, often seen in palaces now converted into luxury hotels attracting tourists seeking royal experiences.

Origin of 'maharajah'

Main points about word origin

  • The term 'maharajah' comes from the Sanskrit words 'maha,' meaning 'great,' and 'raja,' which means 'king.'
  • Originally, the title was reserved for rulers of large kingdoms, often with significant wealth and power, distinct from smaller local kings.

The term 'maharajah' comes from the Sanskrit words 'maha' meaning 'great' and 'raja' meaning 'king'. It was first used in the context of Indian royalty during the era of regional kingdoms, which flourished from ancient times through the medieval period. The title was adopted by various regional kings as they consolidated power and prestige. Maharajahs played a significant role in India's political landscape during the times of the British Raj, where they held varying degrees of autonomy. Post-independence in 1947, many maharajahs lost their political power, but the title remains a part of cultural heritage and history in India.

Word Frequency Rank

Ranking #39,531, this word is encountered relatively rarely in everyday English. It might appear in literary works or specialized texts but isn't essential for general communication.