History of the Maratʾha wars in Hindustan 2: Origin and Genealogy of the Mahrattas.

2

Be it not hidden, that in the language of the people of the Dakhin, these territories and their dependencies are called "Dihast," and the inhabitants of the region are styled "Mahrattas." The Mahratti dialect is adopted exclusively by these classes, and the chieftainship of the Mahrattas is centred in the Bhonsla tribe. The lineage of the Bhonslas is derived from the Udipur Rajas, who bear the title of Rana; and the first of these, according to popular tradition, was one of the descendants of Naushirwan. At the time when the holy warriors of the army of Islam subverted the realms of Iran, Naushirwan's descendants were scattered in every direction; and one of them, having repaired to Hindustan, was promoted to the dignity of a Raja. In a word, one of the Rana's progeny afterwards quitted the territory of Udipur, in consequence of the menacing and disordered aspect of his affairs, and having proceeded to the country of the Dakhin, fixed his abode in the Carnatic. The chiefs of the Dakhin, regarding the majesty of his family with respect and reverence, entered into the most amicable relations with him. His descendants separated into two families; one the Aholias, the other the Bhonslas.