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B2 noun #6,500 most common 10 min read

उत्तराधिकार

uttaradhikar
Practice it Examples Notes & Tips उत्तराधिकार in 30 Seconds
Explanation उत्तराधिकार in your Level:
At the A1 level, 'उत्तराधिकार' (Uttarādhikār) is a very advanced word that you might not need for daily survival. However, you can think of it simply as 'getting things from your family'. When a person dies, their house or money goes to their children. That process is 'उत्तराधिकार'. You can remember it as 'Family Gift'. In simple sentences, we say 'My father's house is mine now'. A1 learners should focus on the person word first: 'उत्तराधिकारी' (Heir), which is like saying 'the next person in the family'. It is a big word, so don't worry if you can't say it perfectly yet. Just know it relates to family property and money. You will mostly see this in stories about kings and queens in your Hindi textbooks. For example, 'The King's son is the next King'. This 'next' or 'after' part is what 'Uttara' means. It is a masculine word, so we use 'ka' with it. It is a formal way to talk about family things.
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At the A2 level, you are starting to build more complex sentences about family and property. 'उत्तराधिकार' is a masculine noun that means 'inheritance'. You might use it when talking about your family history or a house you live in. You should know that 'Uttara' means 'after' and 'Adhikara' means 'right'. So, it is the 'right' you get 'after' someone. For example, 'This house is my uttaradhikar'. You will often see it with the word 'sampatti' (property). A common sentence structure is: '[Person] ka uttaradhikar'. For example, 'Raja ka uttaradhikar' (The King's succession). You should also learn the word 'Virasat', which is similar but more common in daily talk. 'Uttaradhikar' is more like what a lawyer would say. When you read news in Hindi, you might see this word when a famous person passes away. It is important to remember it is a masculine word, so you say 'Mera uttaradhikar' (My inheritance).
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For B1 learners, 'उत्तराधिकार' is a key vocabulary item for discussing social issues, history, and formal family matters. You should understand that it refers to the legal right of succession. It's not just about getting money; it's about the 'right' (adhikar) to it. You will encounter this word in newspapers and formal letters. You should be able to use it with verbs like 'milna' (to get) or 'prapth karna' (to obtain). For example, 'Use apne pita se uttaradhikar mein ek badi company mili' (He got a big company in inheritance from his father). You should also distinguish it from 'Vasiyat' (Will). A 'Vasiyat' is the document, while 'Uttaradhikar' is the right or the process. You might also start seeing it in political contexts, like 'political succession' (rajnaitik uttaradhikar). It's a masculine noun, so pay attention to the gender of accompanying adjectives. If you are describing a dispute, you can use the phrase 'uttaradhikar ka vivad' (dispute of inheritance).
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At the B2 level, you should be comfortable using 'उत्तराधिकार' in its full legal and historical context. You should understand terms like 'Uttaradhikar Adhiniyam' (Succession Act) and 'Uttaradhikar Praman-patra' (Succession Certificate). You should also be able to discuss the cultural implications of inheritance in India, such as the transition from traditional systems to modern laws that include daughters. The word often appears in business news when discussing 'succession planning' in corporate houses. You should be able to use it in complex sentences: 'Sampatti ke uttaradhikar ko lekar parivar mein kalesh ho gaya' (A conflict arose in the family regarding the inheritance of property). You should also recognize the person-noun 'Uttaradhikari' (heir/successor) and the adjective 'Uttaradhikari' (successive). At this level, you should also be aware of its Sanskrit roots and how 'Uttara' (later) combines with 'Adhikara' (right) to form this formal term. It is a high-register word, so use it when you want to sound precise and educated.
C1 learners should appreciate the nuances of 'उत्तराधिकार' compared to synonyms like 'Virasat' or 'Daya'. You should be able to use it in academic or legal discussions about social structure, patriarchy, and economic devolution. The word carries a certain 'gravitas'. You might use it to discuss the 'War of Succession' in Mughal history (Mughal-kalin uttaradhikar ke yuddh) or the philosophical concept of 'intellectual succession'. You should be able to use the word in the oblique case and plural forms correctly: 'Uttaradhikaron ki vibhinn pranaliyan' (Different systems of inheritances). You should also be familiar with the legal jargon surrounding it, such as 'vaidhy uttaradhikari' (legal heir) or 'uttaradhikar se vanchit karna' (to disinherit). At this level, you should be able to write an essay or give a presentation on the legal reforms in Indian inheritance laws using this word as a central theme. It's not just a noun anymore; it's a concept that links law, history, and sociology.
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At the C2 level, you should have a native-like grasp of 'उत्तराधिकार', including its use in classical literature, legal statutes, and philosophical discourse. You should understand how the word functions in the 'Mitakshara' and 'Dayabhaga' systems of ancient Hindu law. You can use it metaphorically to describe the 'succession of ideas' or the 'inheritance of a civilization'. Your usage should reflect an understanding of its register—knowing exactly when to use 'Uttaradhikar' for legal precision versus 'Virasat' for cultural legacy. You should be able to analyze the nuances of the word in legal judgments or complex historical texts. For instance, discussing the 'legitimacy of succession' (uttaradhikar ki vaidhyata) in a disputed political transition. You should also be able to play with the word in creative writing, perhaps personifying 'Inheritance' as a burden or a blessing. Your command over the word's collocations, its etymological depth, and its socio-political weight should be absolute, allowing you to participate in high-level debates about law, equity, and history in Hindi.
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Practice it Examples Notes & Tips

उत्तराधिकार in 30 Seconds

  • A formal noun meaning inheritance or succession in legal and historical contexts.
  • Derived from Sanskrit roots meaning 'the right that follows' after someone's death.
  • Used to describe both the transfer of physical assets and the transition of power.
  • Essential for understanding Indian family law, corporate leadership, and historical narratives.

The Hindi word उत्तराधिकार (Uttarādhikār) is a profound and formal noun that translates most directly to 'inheritance' or 'succession' in English. Rooted deeply in Sanskrit, it is a compound of two words: 'Uttara' (meaning later, following, or subsequent) and 'Adhikāra' (meaning right, authority, or power). Therefore, at its most literal level, it signifies the 'right that follows' or the 'subsequent authority' passed from one person to another. While in English we might use 'inheritance' for money and 'succession' for titles, in Hindi, उत्तराधिकार elegantly covers both the legal transfer of assets and the historical transition of power.

Legal Context
In the legal sphere, this word is used to describe the statutory process by which the property, rights, and obligations of a deceased person are devolved upon their legal heirs. For instance, lawyers discuss the 'Hindu Succession Act' as 'हिंदू उत्तराधिकार अधिनियम'.
Historical Context
When reading about the Mughal Empire or the princely states of India, you will frequently encounter this word in the context of the 'War of Succession' (उत्तराधिकार का युद्ध), where princes fought to claim the throne after their father's demise.
Corporate Context
Modern business journalism uses it to describe 'Succession Planning' in large conglomerates like the Tata Group or Reliance Industries, referring to the next generation of leaders taking the helm.

राजा के अचानक निधन के बाद, उत्तराधिकार का प्रश्न अत्यंत जटिल हो गया। (After the King's sudden demise, the question of succession became extremely complex.)

People use this word when they want to speak with a degree of formality or legal precision. While a common person might use the word 'विरासत' (Virāsat) for a family heirloom or general heritage, उत्तराधिकार is specifically reserved for the 'right' or 'claim' to that inheritance. It implies a structured, often legal, transition rather than just an emotional legacy. You will hear it in news broadcasts, read it in legal documents, and find it in classical literature or historical dramas.

In modern social discourse, the word also appears in discussions about gender equality. For decades, the laws of उत्तराधिकार in various cultures were heavily skewed towards male heirs. Recent legal reforms in India have sought to ensure that daughters have an equal right to उत्तराधिकार, making this word a central term in debates about social justice and familial equity. Understanding this word is not just about learning a noun; it is about understanding the structure of Indian society, law, and history.

संपत्ति के उत्तराधिकार के नियमों में बदलाव की आवश्यकता है। (There is a need for change in the rules of property inheritance.)

Using उत्तराधिकार (Uttarādhikār) correctly requires an understanding of its grammatical role as a masculine noun. In Hindi, nouns dictate the gender of the adjectives and possessive markers that accompany them. Since उत्तराधिकार is masculine, you will use 'का' (kā) instead of 'की' (kī) when indicating possession, and masculine adjectives like 'बड़ा' (baṛā) or 'कानूनी' (kānūnī).

Possessive Construction
To say 'his inheritance', you say 'उसका उत्तराधिकार' (uskā uttarādhikār). To say 'the rights of inheritance', you say 'उत्तराधिकार के अधिकार' (uttarādhikār ke adhikār).

One of the most common ways to use this word is with the verb 'मिलना' (milnā - to receive/get) or 'प्राप्त करना' (prāpt karnā - to obtain). For example: 'उसे अपने दादा से भारी उत्तराधिकार मिला' (He received a heavy inheritance from his grandfather). Notice how the word acts as the subject or object of the sentence, often preceded by the source of the inheritance using the postposition 'से' (se).

संविधान प्रत्येक नागरिक को संपत्ति के उत्तराधिकार का अधिकार देता है। (The Constitution gives every citizen the right to property inheritance.)

In more complex sentence structures, you might find उत्तराधिकार functioning as part of a compound noun or a formal phrase. Phrases like 'उत्तराधिकार प्रमाण-पत्र' (Succession Certificate) are standard in administrative Hindi. If you are describing a dispute, you would say 'उत्तराधिकार को लेकर विवाद' (Dispute regarding inheritance). The word 'को लेकर' is a very useful phrase to connect the noun to the conflict.

Another frequent usage is in the context of 'succession to the throne'. In historical narratives, you will see sentences like: 'राजकुमारों के बीच उत्तराधिकार के लिए संघर्ष शुरू हो गया' (A struggle for succession began among the princes). Here, 'के लिए' (for) shows the purpose of the struggle. This pattern is very common when discussing power dynamics in politics or corporate dynasties.

लोकतंत्र में उत्तराधिकार जन्म से नहीं, बल्कि चुनाव से तय होता है। (In a democracy, succession is decided by election, not by birth.)

Finally, consider the negative usage. To be 'deprived of inheritance' is 'उत्तराधिकार से वंचित होना' (uttarādhikār se vañcit honā). This is a powerful phrase used in literature and legal cases. For example: 'उसे उसके व्यवहार के कारण उत्तराधिकार से वंचित कर दिया गया' (He was deprived of his inheritance because of his behavior). Mastering these collocations—milnā, prāpt karnā, se vañcit honā—will make your Hindi sound much more natural and sophisticated.

While उत्तराधिकार (Uttarādhikār) might not be a word you use to buy vegetables at a local market, it is omnipresent in the 'intellectual' and 'formal' soundscape of India. If you turn on a Hindi news channel like NDTV India or Aaj Tak, you will frequently hear this word during segments involving political dynasties. Reporters often speculate about the 'political successor' (राजनीतिक उत्तराधिकारी) of a veteran leader, and the process of this transition is always referred to as उत्तराधिकार.

News & Media
Whenever a major business tycoon retires, the headlines read 'किसके हाथ होगा उत्तराधिकार?' (In whose hands will the succession be?). This is a standard way to discuss the future leadership of a company.
Legal Offices (Tehsil/Kachahri)
In Indian courts or administrative offices, you will see boards or forms for 'उत्तराधिकार प्रमाण-पत्र' (Succession Certificate). This is a vital document for anyone trying to claim the bank balance or property of a deceased relative.

In the world of entertainment, particularly in 'Period Dramas' or 'Historical Epics' like Bahubali or Jodha Akbar, the word is a central plot device. The entire conflict of the Mahabharata is essentially a dispute over उत्तराधिकार between the Pandavas and the Kauravas. Characters will passionately argue about who has the 'rightful claim' (उचित अधिकार) to the उत्तराधिकार of the throne of Hastinapur.

महाभारत की गाथा वास्तव में उत्तराधिकार के एक भीषण संघर्ष की कहानी है। (The saga of Mahabharata is essentially a story of a fierce struggle for succession.)

You will also encounter this word in formal speeches and academic lectures. A professor of Sociology might discuss the 'patrilineal system of inheritance' as 'पितृसत्तात्मक उत्तराधिकार प्रणाली'. In this context, the word is used to analyze social structures and how wealth stays within certain families or genders. It is a high-register word that signals the speaker's education and the seriousness of the topic.

Lastly, if you read Hindi literature, especially the works of Premchand or modern novelists who deal with rural life and family dynamics, उत्तराधिकार is used to highlight the tensions that arise when land is divided. The word carries a weight of responsibility and often, unfortunately, the baggage of family feuds. It is a word that bridges the gap between the cold, hard law and the messy, emotional reality of human relationships.

One of the most frequent mistakes learners make is confusing उत्तराधिकार (Uttarādhikār) with the word विरासत (Virāsat). While they are often translated as 'inheritance' in English, they have distinct nuances in Hindi. विरासत is a broader, more emotional term that refers to heritage, legacy, or anything passed down from ancestors, including values or culture. उत्तराधिकार, on the other hand, specifically refers to the *legal right* or the *act of succeeding*. You can say 'मुझे संगीत विरासत में मिला' (I got music in my heritage), but you wouldn't usually say 'संगीत का उत्तराधिकार' unless you were talking about a formal title or a music school's leadership.

Mistake 1: Gender Confusion
Learners often treat it as feminine because it ends with 'r' or because 'inheritance' feels like an abstract concept. Remember, it is Masculine. Say 'उसका उत्तराधिकार' (uskā uttarādhikār), not 'उसकी उत्तराधिकार' (uskī uttarādhikār).
Mistake 2: Noun vs. Person
Confusing 'उत्तराधिकार' (the right/act) with 'उत्तराधिकारी' (the person). You *receive* the uttaradhikar, but you *are* the uttaradhikari.

Incorrect: वह अपने पिता का उत्तराधिकार है। (He is his father's inheritance.)
Correct: वह अपने पिता का उत्तराधिकारी है। (He is his father's heir.)

Another common error is using it in very informal settings. If you are talking about getting a small gift or some money from your parents while they are still alive, उत्तराधिकार is too 'heavy'. It sounds like you are reading a court order. In casual conversation, just say 'पैसे मिले' (got money) or 'उपहार मिला' (got a gift). Use उत्तराधिकार when the context is formal, legal, or involves a significant transition of power or assets after death.

Lastly, some learners try to pluralize it unnecessarily in English-style contexts. In Hindi, if you are talking about multiple properties being inherited, you still generally use the singular उत्तराधिकार to refer to the *right* of inheritance as a whole. Only use 'उत्तराधिकारों' when specifically discussing different *types* of inheritance laws or systems in a comparative or academic sense.

सही प्रयोग: उसे अपनी पैतृक संपत्ति का उत्तराधिकार प्राप्त हुआ। (He obtained the inheritance of his ancestral property.)

To truly master उत्तराधिकार (Uttarādhikār), you must understand how it sits alongside its synonyms and related terms. Hindi, like English, has various words for the concept of 'what is left behind,' each with a specific flavor and register.

विरासत (Virāsat)
Register: Common/Literary.
Usage: Refers to heritage or legacy. It is broader than uttaradhikar. You can have a 'cultural legacy' (सांस्कृतिक विरासत), but you wouldn't usually call it 'cultural uttaradhikar'.
दाय (Dāya)
Register: Highly Academic/Legal.
Usage: This is an ancient Sanskrit term for inheritance. You will mostly find it in historical law books like the 'Mitakshara' or 'Dayabhaga' systems of Hindu law. It is rarely used in daily speech.
वसीयत (Vasiyat)
Register: Formal/Common.
Usage: This means 'Will' or 'Testament'. उत्तराधिकार is the *result* or the *right*, whereas वसीयत is the *document* that often dictates it.

तुलना: उत्तराधिकार कानूनी हक है, जबकि विरासत एक भावनात्मक जुड़ाव भी हो सकती है। (Inheritance is a legal right, while heritage can also be an emotional connection.)

When choosing between these words, ask yourself: Am I talking about a lawyer and a court case? If yes, use उत्तराधिकार. Am I talking about a grandson learning to play the sitar because his grandfather did? Use विरासत. Am I talking about a specific piece of paper left by a deceased person? Use वसीयत.

Another interesting related word is अनुक्रम (Anukram), which means 'sequence' or 'succession' in a more general, mathematical, or logical sense. While उत्तराधिकार is specifically for people and property, अनुक्रम is used for the order of events or numbers. Knowing these distinctions will help you navigate different registers of Hindi with confidence and accuracy.

कंपनी के उत्तराधिकार की योजना पहले से ही तैयार थी। (The company's succession plan was already prepared in advance.)

How Formal Is It?

Fun Fact

In ancient Sanskrit, 'Uttara' also means 'North'. This is because in ancient Indian geography, the North was the 'later' or 'upper' part of the sacred map. Thus, 'Uttaradhikar' metaphorically points to moving 'forward' or 'upward' in time.

Pronunciation Guide

UK /ʊt̪ːəɾɑːd̪ʱɪkɑːɾ/
US /ʊt̪ːəɾɑːd̪ʱɪkɑːɾ/
The primary stress is on the third syllable 'dhi' and the secondary stress on the first syllable 'ut'.
Rhymes With
अधिकार (Adhikār) संस्कार (Sanskār) प्रकार (Prakār) आकार (Ākār) विचार (Vicār) प्रचार (Pracār) व्यापार (Vyāpār) उपकार (Upkār)
Common Errors
  • Pronouncing 'tt' as a single 't' (Utaradhikar), which sounds like 'descending'.
  • Failing to aspirate the 'dh' (Uttaradikār).
  • Shortening the long 'a' in 'kar'.

Difficulty Rating

Reading 7/5

Requires knowledge of formal Sanskritized Hindi.

Writing 8/5

Spelling 'त्त' and 'ध' correctly can be tricky.

Speaking 7/5

Pronunciation requires clear aspiration and gemination.

Listening 6/5

Clearly distinguishable in formal speech due to its length.

What to Learn Next

Prerequisites

अधिकार (Right) संपत्ति (Property) पिता (Father) मिलना (To get) कानून (Law)

Learn Next

वसीयत (Will) विरासत (Heritage) अधिनियम (Act) दावा (Claim) वंचित (Deprived)

Advanced

दायभाग (Dayabhaga) मिताक्षरा (Mitakshara) उत्तराधिकारित्व (Successorship) न्यायनिर्णयन (Adjudication)

Grammar to Know

Masculine Noun Agreement

बड़ा उत्तराधिकार (Big inheritance), उसका उत्तराधिकार (His inheritance).

Oblique Case with Postpositions

उत्तराधिकार के बारे में (About inheritance), उत्तराधिकार में (In inheritance).

Compound Noun Formation

उत्तराधिकार + अधिकार = उत्तराधिकार का अधिकार.

Aspiration in Pronunciation

The 'dh' in 'adhikar' must be clearly aspirated to distinguish from 'd'.

Suffix '-ī' for Agent Nouns

Adding 'ī' to 'Uttaradhikar' creates the person 'Uttaradhikari'.

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Examples by Level

1

राजा का बेटा उसका उत्तराधिकारी है।

The King's son is his successor.

Uttaradhikari is the person who inherits.

2

यह घर मेरा उत्तराधिकार है।

This house is my inheritance.

Uttaradhikar is used as a noun here.

3

उसे अपने पिता से उत्तराधिकार मिला।

He got inheritance from his father.

Use 'se' for the source of inheritance.

4

क्या यह आपका उत्तराधिकार है?

Is this your inheritance?

Question form.

5

राम को बड़ा उत्तराधिकार मिला।

Ram got a big inheritance.

Masculine adjective 'bara' matches 'uttaradhikar'.

6

उत्तराधिकार में पैसे मिलते हैं।

One gets money in inheritance.

General statement.

7

वह उत्तराधिकार के बारे में पूछ रहा है।

He is asking about inheritance.

Use 'ke bare mein' for 'about'.

8

मेरे पास कोई उत्तराधिकार नहीं है।

I have no inheritance.

Negative sentence.

1

संपत्ति का उत्तराधिकार किसे मिलेगा?

Who will get the inheritance of the property?

Interrogative sentence.

2

उसके पास पिता का उत्तराधिकार है।

He has his father's inheritance.

Possessive 'ka'.

3

उत्तराधिकार के नियम बहुत कठिन हैं।

The rules of inheritance are very difficult.

Plural rules 'niyam' makes 'ke'.

4

वह अपना उत्तराधिकार छोड़ना चाहता है।

He wants to leave his inheritance.

Verb 'chodna' (to leave).

5

क्या आपको उत्तराधिकार में कुछ मिला?

Did you get anything in inheritance?

Past tense 'mila'.

6

यह जमीन मेरे उत्तराधिकार में आई है।

This land has come into my inheritance.

Idiomatic use with 'aai hai'.

7

उत्तराधिकार के लिए झगड़ा मत करो।

Don't fight for inheritance.

Imperative negative.

8

पुराने समय में उत्तराधिकार केवल बेटों को मिलता था।

In old times, inheritance was only given to sons.

Adverbial phrase of time.

1

उसने अपने उत्तराधिकार के अधिकार के लिए अदालत में केस किया।

He filed a case in court for his right of inheritance.

Compound noun 'uttaradhikar ke adhikar'.

2

कंपनी के उत्तराधिकार की योजना गुप्त रखी गई थी।

The company's succession plan was kept secret.

Feminine 'yojna' makes 'ki'.

3

भारतीय कानून में उत्तराधिकार के कई नियम हैं।

There are many rules of inheritance in Indian law.

Locative 'mein'.

4

उसे अपने मामा से एक बड़ा उत्तराधिकार प्राप्त हुआ।

He obtained a large inheritance from his maternal uncle.

Formal verb 'prapth hua'.

5

क्या बेटियों को भी बराबर का उत्तराधिकार मिलता है?

Do daughters also get an equal inheritance?

Social context.

6

उत्तराधिकार का विवाद सालों तक चला।

The inheritance dispute went on for years.

Dispute noun 'vivad'.

7

वह अपने परिवार के उत्तराधिकार को संभाल रहा है।

He is managing his family's inheritance.

Continuous tense.

8

बिना वसीयत के उत्तराधिकार मिलना मुश्किल होता है।

It is difficult to get inheritance without a will.

Conditional sense.

1

हिंदू उत्तराधिकार अधिनियम 2005 में बड़ा बदलाव किया गया।

A major change was made in the Hindu Succession Act in 2005.

Proper noun: Act name.

2

राजनीतिक उत्तराधिकार अक्सर परिवार के भीतर ही रहता है।

Political succession often remains within the family.

Adjective 'rajnaitik'.

3

उत्तराधिकार प्रमाण-पत्र प्राप्त करने की प्रक्रिया लंबी है।

The process of obtaining a succession certificate is long.

Administrative term.

4

उसे अनैतिक व्यवहार के कारण उत्तराधिकार से वंचित कर दिया गया।

He was deprived of inheritance due to immoral behavior.

Phrase 'se vanchit karna'.

5

मुगल काल में उत्तराधिकार के युद्ध बहुत आम थे।

Wars of succession were very common in the Mughal period.

Historical plural.

6

गांधी जी का असली उत्तराधिकार उनके विचार हैं।

Gandhi ji's real inheritance is his ideas.

Metaphorical use.

7

संपत्ति के उत्तराधिकार को लेकर भाइयों में अनबन हो गई।

A rift occurred between the brothers regarding property inheritance.

Phrase 'ko lekar'.

8

लोकतंत्र में उत्तराधिकार का आधार जनता का मत होता है।

In a democracy, the basis of succession is the people's vote.

Abstract concept.

1

उत्तराधिकार की जटिलताओं को सुलझाने के लिए एक विशेषज्ञ वकील की आवश्यकता है।

An expert lawyer is needed to resolve the complexities of inheritance.

High-level vocabulary 'jatiltayon'.

2

पितृसत्तात्मक समाज में उत्तराधिकार के नियम पुरुषों के पक्ष में रहे हैं।

In a patriarchal society, inheritance rules have been in favor of men.

Sociological context.

3

क्या उत्तराधिकार केवल भौतिक संपत्ति तक सीमित होना चाहिए?

Should inheritance be limited only to physical property?

Philosophical question.

4

उसने अपने उत्तराधिकार के दावे को पुख्ता करने के लिए पुराने दस्तावेज़ पेश किए।

He presented old documents to strengthen his claim of inheritance.

Verb 'pukhta karna'.

5

सांस्कृतिक उत्तराधिकार को सहेजना हर पीढ़ी का कर्तव्य है।

It is the duty of every generation to preserve cultural inheritance.

Adjective 'sanskritik'.

6

वह अपनी विद्वत्ता को अपने शिष्यों के उत्तराधिकार के रूप में छोड़ गया।

He left his scholarship as an inheritance for his disciples.

Literary usage.

7

उत्तराधिकार की यह परंपरा सदियों से चली आ रही है।

This tradition of succession has been going on for centuries.

Continuity phrase 'chali aa rahi hai'.

8

बिना किसी वैध उत्तराधिकारी के, संपत्ति सरकार के पास चली जाएगी।

Without any legal heir, the property will go to the government.

Legal condition.

1

संविधान के अनुच्छेद उत्तराधिकार की वैधानिक व्याख्या प्रदान करते हैं।

The articles of the constitution provide the legal interpretation of succession.

Academic register.

2

उत्तराधिकार का प्रश्न केवल धन का नहीं, बल्कि उत्तरदायित्व का भी है।

The question of inheritance is not just about wealth, but also about responsibility.

Parallelism 'nahi... balki'.

3

उसने अपने पूर्वजों के उत्तराधिकार को एक नई दिशा देने का संकल्प लिया।

He resolved to give a new direction to his ancestors' inheritance.

Sophisticated expression.

4

इतिहास गवाह है कि उत्तराधिकार के मोह ने कई साम्राज्यों का पतन किया।

History is witness that the greed for succession caused the downfall of many empires.

Historical narrative style.

5

इस शोध पत्र में उत्तराधिकार के विभिन्न समाजशास्त्रीय पहलुओं का विश्लेषण किया गया है।

In this research paper, various sociological aspects of inheritance have been analyzed.

Research terminology.

6

क्या हम अपने उत्तराधिकार में एक स्वच्छ पर्यावरण छोड़ पाएंगे?

Will we be able to leave a clean environment in our inheritance?

Environmental ethics context.

7

उत्तराधिकार की प्रक्रिया में पारदर्शिता का होना अनिवार्य है।

It is mandatory to have transparency in the process of succession.

Administrative requirement.

8

उसकी लेखनी में प्रेमचंद का उत्तराधिकार स्पष्ट रूप से झलकता है।

Premchand's inheritance is clearly reflected in his writing.

Metaphorical literary influence.

Common Collocations

उत्तराधिकार का युद्ध
कानूनी उत्तराधिकार
उत्तराधिकार प्रमाण-पत्र
संपत्ति का उत्तराधिकार
राजनीतिक उत्तराधिकार
उत्तराधिकार अधिनियम
उत्तराधिकार से वंचित
पैतृक उत्तराधिकार
उत्तराधिकार की योजना
उत्तराधिकार का दावा

Common Phrases

उत्तराधिकार में मिलना

— To receive something as an inheritance.

उसे यह बंगला उत्तराधिकार में मिला।

उत्तराधिकार का प्रश्न

— The question or issue of succession.

पार्टी के सामने उत्तराधिकार का प्रश्न खड़ा है।

उत्तराधिकार के नियम

— The rules or laws of inheritance.

उत्तराधिकार के नियम हर धर्म में अलग होते हैं।

उत्तराधिकार की लड़ाई

— The fight or struggle for inheritance.

भाइयों के बीच उत्तराधिकार की लड़ाई चल रही है।

उत्तराधिकार का हक

— The right of inheritance.

बेटियों को भी उत्तराधिकार का हक है।

उत्तराधिकार संभालना

— To handle or take over the inheritance/legacy.

वह अब अपने पिता का उत्तराधिकार संभाल रहा है।

उत्तराधिकार तय करना

— To decide the succession.

राजा ने अपना उत्तराधिकार तय कर दिया था।

उत्तराधिकार का मामला

— A case or matter involving inheritance.

यह एक पेचीदा उत्तराधिकार का मामला है।

उत्तराधिकार खोना

— To lose the right of inheritance.

गलत फैसलों के कारण उसने अपना उत्तराधिकार खो दिया।

उत्तराधिकार की परंपरा

— The tradition of succession.

यह उनके परिवार की पुरानी उत्तराधिकार की परंपरा है।

Often Confused With

उत्तराधिकार vs विरासत (Virāsat)

Confused because both mean inheritance. Virasat is broader (heritage/legacy), while Uttaradhikar is specifically the legal right/succession.

उत्तराधिकार vs वसीयत (Vasiyat)

A 'Vasiyat' is the document (Will). 'Uttaradhikar' is the right or the process that follows the will.

उत्तराधिकार vs उतार (Utār)

Sounds similar but means 'descent' or 'decline'. The double 't' in Uttaradhikar is vital.

Idioms & Expressions

"खून का उत्तराधिकार"

— Inheritance by blood; the natural right of a biological child.

राजगद्दी पर उसका खून का उत्तराधिकार था।

Literary
"उत्तराधिकार की आग"

— A fierce conflict or passion regarding succession.

महल में उत्तराधिकार की आग सुलग रही थी।

Literary
"बिना उत्तराधिकार का"

— Something that has no successor or future; a dead end.

यह विचार बिना उत्तराधिकार का है।

Philosophical
"उत्तराधिकार की छाँव"

— Living under the influence or legacy of a predecessor.

वह हमेशा अपने पिता के उत्तराधिकार की छाँव में रहा।

Poetic
"धूल का उत्तराधिकार"

— Inheriting nothing but poverty or ruins.

गरीब किसान के बच्चों को धूल का उत्तराधिकार मिला।

Poetic
"कलम का उत्तराधिकार"

— Inheriting the talent or profession of writing from a parent.

उसे अपने पिता से कलम का उत्तराधिकार मिला है।

Literary
"उत्तराधिकार का बोझ"

— The heavy responsibility that comes with inheritance.

बड़े बेटे पर उत्तराधिकार का बोझ बहुत था।

Neutral
"नाम का उत्तराधिकार"

— Inheriting only the name or reputation, not necessarily wealth.

उसके पास बस अपने खानदान के नाम का उत्तराधिकार है।

Neutral
"उत्तराधिकार की कतार"

— The line of succession.

वह उत्तराधिकार की कतार में तीसरे नंबर पर है।

Formal
"मिट्टी का उत्तराधिकार"

— Inheritance of land; being tied to one's roots.

हमें इस मिट्टी का उत्तराधिकार मिला है।

Literary

Easily Confused

उत्तराधिकार vs उत्तराधिकारी

Looks almost identical.

Uttaradhikar is the noun (inheritance), Uttaradhikari is the person (heir).

वह उत्तराधिकारी (person) है, उसे उत्तराधिकार (thing) मिला।

उत्तराधिकार vs अधिकार

It is part of the word.

Adhikar is any general 'right'. Uttaradhikar is specifically a 'successive right'.

वोट देना मेरा अधिकार है, घर मेरा उत्तराधिकार है।

उत्तराधिकार vs उत्तर

It is the first part.

Uttar usually means 'answer' or 'north'. In this compound, it means 'subsequent'.

प्रश्न का उत्तर दो। (Give the answer.)

उत्तराधिकार vs दायित्व

Sounds like 'Daya' (ancient inheritance).

Dayitva means 'responsibility' or 'liability'.

यह मेरा नैतिक दायित्व है।

उत्तराधिकार vs पुरस्कार

Both involve getting something.

Puraskar is a prize/award for merit. Uttaradhikar is received by birth/law.

उसे खेल में पुरस्कार मिला।

Sentence Patterns

A2

[Person] को [Source] से उत्तराधिकार मिला।

राम को अपने पिता से उत्तराधिकार मिला।

B1

[Property] के उत्तराधिकार का विवाद [Time] से चल रहा है।

जमीन के उत्तराधिकार का विवाद सालों से चल रहा है।

B2

[Person] को उत्तराधिकार से वंचित कर दिया गया।

उसे उत्तराधिकार से वंचित कर दिया गया।

C1

उत्तराधिकार का प्रश्न [Concept] से जुड़ा हुआ है।

उत्तराधिकार का प्रश्न सामाजिक न्याय से जुड़ा हुआ है।

C1

बिना [Document] के उत्तराधिकार का दावा करना कठिन है।

बिना वसीयत के उत्तराधिकार का दावा करना कठिन है।

B2

कंपनी के उत्तराधिकार की योजना [Status] है।

कंपनी के उत्तराधिकार की योजना तैयार है।

A1

यह मेरा उत्तराधिकार है।

यह मेरा उत्तराधिकार है।

C2

उत्तराधिकार की वैधानिकता पर [Action] किया गया।

उत्तराधिकार की वैधानिकता पर प्रश्नचिह्न लगाया गया।

Word Family

Nouns

उत्तराधिकारी (Uttarādhikārī) - Heir/Successor
उत्तराधिकारिणी (Uttarādhikāriṇī) - Female Heir
उत्तराधिकारित्व (Uttarādhikāritva) - Successorship

Verbs

उत्तराधिकार प्राप्त करना (Uttarādhikār prāpt karnā) - To inherit
उत्तराधिकार देना (Uttarādhikār denā) - To bequeath

Adjectives

उत्तराधिकारी (Uttarādhikārī) - Successive/Inherited
उत्तराधिकार-संबंधी (Uttarādhikār-sambandhī) - Related to inheritance

Related

उत्तर (Uttara) - Later
अधिकार (Adhikāra) - Right
विरासत (Virasat) - Heritage
वसीयत (Vasiyat) - Will
वंश (Vansh) - Lineage
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How to Use It

frequency

Common in news, history, law, and formal literature; rare in casual daily errands.

Common Mistakes
  • उसकी उत्तराधिकार (Uskī uttarādhikār) → उसका उत्तराधिकार (Uskā uttarādhikār)

    The word is masculine, so the possessive marker must be masculine.

  • वह मेरा उत्तराधिकार है (pointing to a person) → वह मेरा उत्तराधिकारी है (pointing to a person)

    Uttaradhikar is the inheritance; Uttaradhikari is the heir.

  • उतारधिकार (Utāradhikār) → उत्तराधिकार (Uttarādhikār)

    Missing the double 't' changes the rhythm and is a spelling error.

  • विरासत और उत्तराधिकार are always the same. → They have different nuances.

    Virasat is broader/emotional; Uttaradhikar is legal/formal.

  • Using it for small gifts. → Use 'upahar' or 'tohfa'.

    Uttaradhikar is too formal for minor items.

Tips

Gender Check

Remember that 'उत्तराधिकार' is masculine. This is the most common mistake for learners. Always say 'बड़ा उत्तराधिकार' or 'उसका उत्तराधिकार'.

Noun vs Person

Don't confuse 'उत्तराधिकार' (the inheritance) with 'उत्तराधिकारी' (the heir). One is the thing you get, the other is the person who gets it.

Legal Roots

The word is very formal. Use it when talking about laws, history, or business succession to sound more professional.

The Double T

The 'tt' in 'Uttar' is a double consonant. Press your tongue against your teeth slightly longer to pronounce it correctly.

Business Usage

In corporate Hindi, 'Succession Planning' is 'उत्तराधिकार योजना'. Use this in formal business meetings.

Epic Connections

Remember that the 'Mahabharata' is essentially a story about 'उत्तराधिकार'. This will help you remember the word's weight and importance.

Avoid Overuse

Don't use it for small things like inheriting a shirt. It's for significant things like houses, money, or titles.

Spelling Tip

The 'dhi' is aspirated. Make sure you write 'धि' and not 'दि' to avoid a spelling error.

After-Right

Think: Uttara = After, Adhikar = Right. The Right that comes After.

Vs Virasat

Use 'Virasat' for culture/feelings and 'Uttaradhikar' for law/property.

Memorize It

Mnemonic

Think of 'Uttar' as 'After' (like 'post') and 'Adhikar' as 'Authority'. So, Uttar-Adhikar is the 'After-Authority' you get when someone passes away.

Visual Association

Imagine a king handing a crown to his son. The crown represents the 'Adhikar' (right) and the son is the 'Uttara' (the one who follows).

Word Web

Property Law Family Succession Heir Will Throne Right

Challenge

Try to use 'उत्तराधिकार' in a sentence about a famous historical figure and then in a sentence about a modern business leader.

Word Origin

Derived from Sanskrit 'उत्तराधिकार' (Uttarādhikāra). It is a Tatpurusha compound consisting of 'उत्तर' (Uttara) meaning 'subsequent' or 'following' and 'अधिकार' (Adhikāra) meaning 'right' or 'authority'.

Original meaning: The right or authority that follows after the death of the previous holder.

Indo-Aryan (Sanskrit)

Cultural Context

Be careful when discussing inheritance in social settings, as it can be a sensitive topic involving family disputes or grief.

In English-speaking cultures, 'inheritance' is often a private financial matter. In India, 'uttaradhikar' is a public, social, and often highly communal topic involving extended families.

The Mahabharata (A massive epic about a war of uttaradhikar). The Hindu Succession Act, 2005 (A landmark legal reference). Succession (The TV show, often discussed in Hindi media as 'उत्तराधिकार की कहानी').

Practice in Real Life

Real-World Contexts

Legal Disputes

  • उत्तराधिकार का मुकदमा
  • हक जताना
  • अदालत का फैसला
  • कानूनी वारिस

History Books

  • सिंहासन का उत्तराधिकार
  • राजगद्दी
  • राजवंश
  • उत्तराधिकार का संघर्ष

Corporate World

  • बोर्ड ऑफ डायरेक्टर्स
  • सीईओ का उत्तराधिकार
  • अगली पीढ़ी
  • लीडरशिप ट्रांजिशन

Family Talk

  • बाप-दादा की संपत्ति
  • हिस्सा मिलना
  • बंटवारा
  • वसीयतनामा

News/Politics

  • वंशवाद
  • राजनीतिक वारिस
  • सत्ता का हस्तांतरण
  • पार्टी नेतृत्व

Conversation Starters

"क्या आपके देश में उत्तराधिकार के नियम बहुत जटिल हैं?"

"क्या आपको लगता है कि उत्तराधिकार में मिली संपत्ति इंसान को आलसी बनाती है?"

"भारतीय इतिहास में उत्तराधिकार का सबसे प्रसिद्ध युद्ध कौन सा है?"

"क्या आप उत्तराधिकार के लिए वसीयत लिखने को ज़रूरी मानते हैं?"

"क्या आधुनिक समाज में उत्तराधिकार के नियमों में और बदलाव होने चाहिए?"

Journal Prompts

लिखिए कि आपके परिवार में उत्तराधिकार की क्या परंपराएं हैं।

यदि आपको एक बड़ा उत्तराधिकार मिले, तो आप उसका उपयोग कैसे करेंगे?

उत्तराधिकार और कड़ी मेहनत (hard work) के बीच के संतुलन पर अपने विचार व्यक्त कीजिए।

किसी ऐसी फिल्म या कहानी का वर्णन करें जिसका मुख्य विषय उत्तराधिकार का विवाद हो।

क्या हम आने वाली पीढ़ी को एक बेहतर उत्तराधिकार (पर्यावरण, शिक्षा) दे रहे हैं?

Frequently Asked Questions

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No, it applies to property, titles, debts, and even social or political positions. For example, a prince inherits the throne, which is an 'उत्तराधिकार' of power.

Yes. 'Virasat' is heritage (like culture or values), while 'उत्तराधिकार' is the specific legal right to inherit assets or positions.

It is a masculine noun. You should use masculine adjectives and possessive markers like 'मेरा' or 'उसका'.

The word for heir is 'उत्तराधिकारी' (Uttarādhikārī). For a female heir, you can use 'उत्तराधिकारिणी' (Uttarādhikāriṇī).

You can, but it sounds very formal. In casual talk, people often use 'विरासत' or simply say 'पिता की संपत्ति'.

It is called 'उत्तराधिकार प्रमाण-पत्र' (Uttarādhikār Pramāṇ-patra).

You can use the phrase 'उत्तराधिकार प्राप्त करना' or simply 'उत्तराधिकार में मिलना'.

Yes, legally, if you inherit assets, you might also inherit the 'उत्तराधिकार' of the deceased's debts or obligations.

In this context, 'Uttara' means 'later' or 'following'. It refers to what happens after the previous person is gone.

Very often. It refers to who will lead a party or take over a political legacy, known as 'राजनीतिक उत्तराधिकार'.

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Test Yourself 200 questions

writing

Write a sentence in Hindi using 'उत्तराधिकार' to describe someone getting a house from their father.

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Translate to Hindi: 'The dispute over inheritance lasted for ten years.'

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Explain the difference between 'विरासत' and 'उत्तराधिकार' in Hindi.

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Write a formal sentence about 'Succession Planning' in a company.

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Translate to Hindi: 'Who is the rightful heir to the throne?'

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Use the phrase 'उत्तराधिकार से वंचित' in a sentence.

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Write a sentence about daughters' rights in inheritance.

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writing

Translate: 'Succession is not just about money, but responsibility.'

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Write a sentence using 'उत्तराधिकार प्रमाण-पत्र'.

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writing

Translate: 'The War of Succession in the Mughal Empire was fierce.'

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writing

Describe your own 'cultural inheritance' in one sentence.

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Translate: 'He obtained the inheritance through a will.'

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Use 'राजनीतिक उत्तराधिकार' in a sentence about a leader.

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Translate: 'Every citizen has the right to inheritance.'

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Write a short dialogue (2 lines) between two brothers about property.

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Translate: 'The process of succession is transparent.'

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Write a sentence about 'ancestral property'.

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Translate: 'Succession certificate is required for the bank.'

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Use the word 'उत्तराधिकार' in a metaphorical sense.

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Translate: 'The King announced his successor.'

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speaking

Pronounce 'उत्तराधिकार' clearly three times.

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speaking

State your name and say 'I am the heir of my family' in Hindi.

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speaking

Explain the meaning of 'Succession Certificate' in your own words in Hindi.

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Discuss for 30 seconds: Should inheritance be taxed?

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Say 'War of Succession' in Hindi and use it in a historical sentence.

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Translate and speak: 'My father gave me this house in inheritance.'

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Describe a 'Succession Plan' for a small business in Hindi.

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How do you say 'Deprived of inheritance'? Say it clearly.

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speaking

Explain the difference between 'Virasat' and 'Uttaradhikar' verbally.

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Say: 'This is a complicated case of inheritance.'

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Tell a short story about a King and his successor in 3 sentences.

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Pronounce 'Uttaradhikarini' correctly.

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Ask a question about inheritance laws in India in Hindi.

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Repeat: 'Daughters have equal rights in succession.'

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Use 'Uttaradhikar' and 'Adhikar' in the same sentence.

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Say 'Succession Act' in Hindi.

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Describe the plot of Mahabharata using the word 'Uttaradhikar'.

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Say: 'He is managing his father's succession.'

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Ask: 'Who will get the inheritance?'

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Say: 'The court decided the inheritance.'

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Identify the word: 'Uttaradhikar' or 'Utaradhikar'?

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Is the speaker saying 'Successor' or 'Inheritance'? (Audio: Uttaradhikari)

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True or False: The word heard is feminine. (Audio: Mera Uttaradhikar)

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listening

Listen to the phrase: 'Uttaradhikar ka vivad'. What does it mean?

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Identify the aspirated sound: 'Uttaradhikar' or 'Uttaradikar'?

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Listen to: 'Use vanchit kar diya gaya'. What happened to him?

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Which word is used for 'Law'? (Audio: Uttaradhikar Adhiniyam)

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What is the source of inheritance? (Audio: Pita se mila)

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Is the speaker talking about a 'Will'? (Audio: Vasiyat ke bina uttaradhikar)

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Listen to the number: '2005 ka kanoon'. Which year is mentioned?

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Identify the tone: Formal or Informal? (Audio: Nyayalaya ne uttaradhikar par nirnay diya)

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listening

What is the subject? (Audio: Sampatti ka uttaradhikar)

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Listen for the suffix: 'Uttaradhikari' or 'Uttaradhikar'?

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What kind of যুদ্ধ (war) is it? (Audio: Uttaradhikar ka yuddh)

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Is it about 'Heritage' or 'Inheritance'? (Audio: Sanskritik Virasat)

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