What does jagir mean?
A jagir refers to a type of feudal land grant or estate, typically in India or Pakistan, where the holder has hereditary rights to collect revenue from the land. The jagir system was a key feature of the Mughal Empire and continued to exist in various forms until the British colonial period. The holder of a jagir, known as a jagirdar, was responsible for collecting taxes from peasants and maintaining law and order in the territory. The jagir system has been abolished in most countries, but it remains an important part of historical and cultural heritage. Understanding the concept of jagir provides insight into the social and economic structures of pre-colonial India and Pakistan.
nounA jagir is a type of feudal land grant or estate, typically in India or Pakistan, where the holder has hereditary rights to collect revenue from the land.
- A feudal land grant or estate.
- A hereditary right to collect revenue from land.
"The Mughal emperor granted the jagir to his loyal nobleman, who then collected taxes from the peasants."
"The jagir was passed down through generations of the noble family."
"The British colonial authorities abolished the jagir system in India after independence."
The plural form jagirs is used to refer to multiple land grants or estates.
"The nobleman held several jagirs throughout his lifetime."
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Etymology of jagir
The term jagir originates from the Persian language, where it is derived from the words 'jag' meaning 'world' and 'ir' meaning 'possessor'. The concept of jagir emerged during the Mughal Empire in India, where it referred to a type of feudal land grant or estate. The jagir system was influenced by earlier forms of landholding in India and was later adopted by other Muslim dynasties in the region.
Usage notes
The term jagir is often used in historical or academic contexts to refer to the feudal system in India or Pakistan.