What is "pundits"

Usage examples of "pundits".

Thus when the British Mission led by Francis Younghusband forced its way to Lhasa in 1904 there were not only fluent speakers of Tibetan amongst its officers, but thanks to the painstaking reports of Indian agents, the so-called Pundits, who were secretly sent to survey Tibet after 1866, there even existed already remarkably full and accurate accounts of its religion, customs and geography.

Contact with Tibet was confined to unofficial intermediaries and some of the country was explored by the so-called Pundits, specially trained Indians speaking Tibetan, who travelled through the country, often at some risk, observing manners, map-making and noting the system of government.

After church, Mr Gazebee tried to get hold of him, for there was still much to be said, and many hints to be given, as to how Frank should speak, and, more especially, as to how to hold his tongue among the learned pundits in and about Chancery Lane.