Chobdar

/tʃɒbˈdɑːr/ noun

Definition

A servant or official in South Asia, particularly during the British Raj, who carries a staff or cudgel as a symbol of authority or rank.

Etymology

From Hindi 'chob' (stick) + 'dar' (holder/bearer). This Anglo-Indian term became common in colonial India to describe attendants and officials of various ranks.

Kelly Says

British colonials borrowed the title 'chobdar' so enthusiastically that the rank eventually described everyone from palace guards to ceremonial attendants, creating a whole hierarchy of stick-carriers that became part of the Raj administration.

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