Asaf Jah I, the first Nizam of Hyderabad, ensured that subsequent Nizams would have greater control over the development of the Deccan region, including Hyderabad. Loosening the grip of the Mughals over Hyderabad was a significant achievement of Asaf Jah I.
Contents
Mughal Influence Reduces
Mughal influence in the Deccan region weakened after the death of Aurangzeb in 1707. Sensing an opportunity to assert authority, Asaf Jah I declared himself the first Nizam in 1724. The rule of the Nizams continued through seven successive Nizams and lasted until 1948.
With complete autonomy in matters of administration, economy, and security, the subsequent Nizams were able to focus on the development of the region. While much has been written about the wealth of the Nizams, it is important to recognize that all Nizams, beginning with Asaf Jah I, made significant contributions that benefited Hyderabad and its inhabitants.
External Aggression
As the first Nizam of Hyderabad, Asaf Jah I remained vigilant against external aggression, placing high importance on developing and maintaining a strong military force. The Maratha Empire was rapidly expanding in the 18th century and posed a significant threat to the Deccan region. Their frequent raids and military campaigns made them one of the Nizam’s main concerns. Rivalries with regional powers in South India, especially in the Carnatic and Mysore regions, required the Nizams to stay militarily prepared.
The Nizams had also to stay alert to foreign powers in the region. As British and French colonial influence expanded in India, the Nizams had to navigate complex alliances and rivalries, especially during the Carnatic Wars and later under British paramountcy. Asaf Jah 2 the second Nizam, apparently worked out an equation that, would help keep peace with the British and French. Some reports suggest that the Nizam, paid for military support from the two foreign powers.
Issuing Coins
After asserting independence from the weakening Mughal Empire, Asaf Jah 1 began issuing coins in his own name, although they still sometimes bore the nominal authority of the Mughal emperor to maintain political legitimacy. Issuing currency was a symbol of sovereignty—by doing this, Asaf Jah I showed that his state functioned independently of Mughal central authority. This practice was continued by his successors, the Nizams of Hyderabad, up until the integration of Hyderabad State into the Indian Union in 1948.
Developing Hyderabad
Once the Nizams, starting with Asaf Jah I, had stabilized their rule and addressed key issues related to security and revenue collection, they were able to focus on the development of Hyderabad and the well-being of its people.
Major improvements were made in roads, railways, and public buildings. The Nizams introduced modern water supply systems, including the Osman Sagar and Himayat Sagar reservoirs. Hospitals, schools, and universities such as Osmania University (est. 1918) were founded. Though it took a long time after the reign of Asaf Jah 1 the first Nizam, for these developments to materialize – activities were guided by the spirit that the first Nizam had inculcated into the Nizam rule.
Religious Tolerance
Religious tolerance was largely maintained, and cultural patronage extended to both Hindu and Muslim institutions. Asaf Jah 1 initiated a trend where, qualifications and ability too precedence over religion when appointing, officers to take care of various activities of the state. The Nizams encouraged talent and this, helped develop an effective work culture of the region.
The People
Through the efforts of the Nizams, living standards of the people improved. Public health measures reduced epidemics and improved sanitation. Affordable housing schemes and infrastructure developments led to better urban living. The court of the Nizam was known for charity and public works, especially during famines and floods.
Summary
The Nizams balanced financial prudence with social responsibility. Their reign combined the formation of a wealthy and administratively strong state with investments in the welfare of their subjects, making Hyderabad one of the most developed princely states before independence.
Related Posts
