Maharaj
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Maharaj is a Hindu noble and religious title.
Dynastic
It is used by a male prince of the blood of the ruling dynasties whose ruler is styled Maharaja or some variation (e.g. Maharao) 'Great King'. In this context, it is not to be confused with the ruler's sovereign, therefore far higher, title, and it does not vary according to the ruler's title (formula: Maha- 'great' + some variation on Raja). It can also occur in compound noble titles, see for example under kumar.
In Jodhpur (in Rajasthan), until the reign of Maharaja Umaid Singhji, the title of noble title of Maharaj was inheritable by all legitimate males, in the male line, for three generations. The title was then extended to seven generations, in conformity with Rajput marriage customs. Their sons are styled Rajkumar during their father's lifetime, and Maharaj afterwards. The eighth generation and beyond inherit the lower title of Thakur, through the eldest son, and Kumar Shri through the younger sons.
Hindu
Maharaj is also the title of Hindu 'princes of the faith' and other senior religious figures.
In this context, the domain of a Maharaj is typically referred to as a Brahmanical See.
Sources and references
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