Mankari

Mankari (Mānkari or Maankari) is a hereditary title used by Maratha nobles[1][2] and troops[3] from the Indian subcontinent who held land grants, and cash allowances.

[4] They held an official position at the Darbar (court) and were entitled to certain ceremonial honours and presents rendered at courts, councils, weddings, festivals, village assemblies, etc.

They were worthy of distinction and the honour bestowed upon them was the result of the military, bureaucratic or fiscal importance of them or their distinguished ancestors.

[5][6] The term was widely used by Maratha nobility, who held important positions in various princely states of the Maratha Empire.

[7][8]

A Maratha Durbar showing the Chief ( Raja ) and the nobles ( Sardars , Jagirdars , Istamuradars & Mankaris of the state .
Maratha Soldiers