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Do Amkars belong to 96 kuls of Marathas If not, what is their relevance in Maratha history?
The Amkars are not traditionally listed among the 96 Kuli Marathas (Chhattrapati Shivaji’s warrior clans), which is a group of 96 clans or "Kuls" considered the aristocracy or ruling clans of the Maratha community. However, to better understand their role in Maratha history, it's helpful to break it down into a few points:
1. The 96 Kuli Marathas:
The 96 Kuli Marathas are a well-defined group of clans that historically served in the military under Maratha rulers like Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj. These clans have a warrior background and are highly regarded in Maharashtra, known for their roles in building and defending the Maratha Empire. The list of these clans has been passed down through oral and written traditions, and although there is some debate about which clans make the exact 96, they generally include names like Bhosale, Shinde, Gaikwad, Pawar, Jadhav, and others.
2. Who Are the Amkars?
The Amkar surname is not typically associated with the 96 Kuli Maratha clans. In the context of Maratha history, they might belong to other Maratha sub-groups, such as the Kunbis or Deshmukhs, who were agriculturists but were often recruited into the military and later played roles in Maratha administration and governance. These groups supported the 96 Kuli Marathas but did not hold the same aristocratic position.
The Kunbis, for example, were traditionally an agrarian community but formed the backbone of Shivaji’s army and later became integrated into the broader Maratha identity.
3. Relevance in Maratha History:
While not being part of the elite 96 Kuli Marathas, families like the Amkars might have contributed to the Maratha ar or administration in various capacities, especially during the later expansion of the empire. Over time, many non-96 Kuli groups assimilated into the Maratha identity through their service and loyalty to the Maratha cause.
Historically, many such groups helped in administrative roles, providing logistical support, or serving as minor military leaders or cavalrymen under larger Maratha sardars (chiefs). Their role was crucial in maintaining the vast Maratha Empire, which spanned large parts of India at its peak.
Conclusion:
The Amkars are not part of the traditional 96 Kuli Maratha clans, but their relevance in Maratha history could stem from their possible roles in the agrarian society or minor administrative and military contributions during the Maratha Empire. They might have been part of the larger Maratha community that supported and bolstered the power and influence of the ruling clans, contributing to the success and expansion of the Maratha Empire.
