"Mansabdars" in Mughal period were

In the Mughal period, "Mansabdars" were officials of the state who held military ranks and administrative positions within the Mughal administrative system. The term "mansab" refers to a rank or position within the imperial service, and those who held these ranks were known as mansabdars.

Mansabdars were part of the Mughal nobility and were granted land revenue assignments (known as jagirs) based on their ranks. Their primary responsibilities included both military service and administrative duties. Mansabdars were expected to maintain a contingent of troops based on their assigned rank and provide military support to the empire.

Option A: Mansabdars were not landlords or zamindars, but rather government officials with military and administrative roles.
Option C: While mansabdars were assigned revenue assignments, their main function was not to give revenue, but to serve in administrative and military capacities.
Option D: Mansabdars were not revenue collectors; they were more focused on military leadership and administrative functions.

Therefore, the correct option is Option B: Officials of the state, as mansabdars were officials who held military ranks and played key roles in the Mughal administration.