Thakur (title)


Thakur is a historical feudal title of the Indian subcontinent, now used as a surname. The female variant of the title is Thakurani or Thakurain, also used to describe the wife of a Thakur.
The word Thakur means 'lord', 'god' or 'master'. The title was used by rulers of several princely states, including Ambliara, Vala, Morbi, Barsoda, and Rajkot State. Sons of thakurs were given the Sanskrit title of Kumara, popular usage being Kunwar in the North and Kumar in Bengal and South India.
A Thakur's estate was called a Thakurate or Thikana, and was recognised at a salute state rank in the British Empire of India. The Thakur Sahib of Dhrol, Thakur Sahib of Limbdi, Thakur Sahib of Palitana and Thakur Sahib of Rajkot were recognised with hereditary 9-gun salutes, while the Thakur Sahib of Gondal received an 11-gun salute.

Etymology

It is derived from the Sanskrit word thākura meaning deity, idol, chief or man of rank.