Maharashtra

Part of speech: noun

Definitions

1. A state located in the western region of India known for its economic significance and cultural diversity
2. A prominent state in India that features a rich history, vibrant cities, and various languages
3. An important Indian state characterized by its bustling metropolis and significant contributions to the national economy

Etymology: Maharashtra is a Sanskrit compound: "mahā-", the combining form of "mahat" meaning "great," joined to "rāṣṭra," which means "nation" or "dominion." The name therefore reads as "great nation" or "great dominion," a label that fits a state of India's western coast that is among the country's largest and most populous. The second element is less certain than the first. Some accounts tie "rāṣṭra" to the Rashtrakuta dynasty, which once ruled the area, and suggest the name was shortened from that dynasty's title. Others connect it to "rāṣṭrika," a clan name found in inscriptions of the emperor Ashoka, or to "ratha," meaning "chariot." The Rashtrakuta link is the most discussed of these, but none can be confirmed. English also has "Maratha," which is a doublet of the same name: the two words descend from one source by different routes, one through the Sanskrit-derived Marathi language, the other through a different line of transmission, giving the people and the region two closely related forms.

Synonyms: MH, Indian state, Maratha region