Pradhan
From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
Pradhan is a high, generally ministerial title of Sanskrit origin in cultures of Hindu tradition, mainly in and around the Indian subcontinent. Pradhan literally means "Greatest leader of all". The precise meaning(s) can differ significantly per state, and in many cases the style has been abandoned, as in many Indian princely states (mainly since the Mughal era, often in favour of Muslim styles such as Diwan or Wasir). Meanings given in the Oxford Hindi-English Dictionary include 'chief' and 'leader'.
[edit] India
Udaipur(Mewar), in Rajasthan: Orissa: Maharashtra: and West Bengal:
[edit] Nepal
- Pradhan Mantri: Prime Minister (Mantri is the root of Mandarin).
- Pradhan Senadhipati: Chief of Staff (Senadhipati refers to an old Sanskrit style for military, also used in Nepal for Commander in Chief).
- Pradhan Senapati: "Grand General", also translated as Chief of Staff.
- Pradhans are considered to be one of the reputable groups in Nepal. They belong to the Newari community, and fall under Kshatriya caste group.
