Zamindars were landowners in India during the Mughal era and later under British colonial rule. They were responsible for collecting taxes from the peasants who worked on their land. In return, zamindars had the right to keep a portion of the collected taxes for themselves, which often led to significant wealth and power. The zamindari system was formalized by the British in the 19th century, aiming to streamline tax collection. However, this system often resulted in exploitation of the peasants, as zamindars could impose high taxes and evict tenants. The zamindari system was abolished in India after independence in 1947.