A maund was a common measure in trade, like pounds or kilos today.

Old Weight Measure

The exact weight of a maund could vary from one region to another in Asia.

Regional Variations

A maund as a container was a convenient way to carry goods to market.

Maunds were also units of measure, like saying 'a basketful'.

To maund is to ask for charity, often with a sense of humbleness.

Poets may use 'maund' to evoke an old-time atmosphere or sense of tradition.