East Indian Sailors, also known as Lascars (7 letters), were sailors from the Indian subcontinent who served on European ships during the Age of Sail. They were employed by the British East India Company and other European powers to serve on their ships in the Indian Ocean and beyond. The term 'LASCAR' is derived from the Persian word for 'SOLDIER'. These sailors were highly valued for their navigational skills and knowledge of the Indian Ocean. They were also known for their hard work and loyalty.