The Ain-i-Akbari describes Hatkars as being "a proud, refractory and domineering race of Marathas, living in the Basim Sircar and, with numerous armed forces, occupying the forts and controlling the surrounding districts".
[7] Syed Siraj-ul-Hassan describes them as "strong built and vigorous frame, generally of dark complexion, with a bold and haughty demeanour and are the stuff of which good soldiers are made".
[12] Under the leadership of Novsaji Naik, the community of Hatkars had captured a number of strongholds in Nanded and Berar, which was under the Nizam of Hyderabad.
[13][9][7][14] According to Hassan, In point of social standing the Hatkars rank with the Maratha, with whom they exchange kachi (uncooked) food.
[17][full citation needed] The favorite object of worship is Khandoba, to whom offerings of flowers and sweetmeats are made every Sunday.
They observe all the Hindu festivals, among which the Holi, or Shimga, in March and the Dussehra in October, are held in great importance.
[15] Traditionally, the Hatkars are distinguished from other Dhangar by wearing a red turban, earring and a coarse blanket and carrying staff.