Nizam ul Mulk and the Foundation of the Asaf Jahi Dynasty

 

Question: Nizam ul Mulk and the Foundation of the Asaf Jahi Dynasty

Introduction

Nizam ul Mulk, born Mir Qamar-ud-din Khan Siddiqi Bayafandi, emerges as a towering figure in the annals of Indian history, celebrated for his unparalleled efficiency and unwavering loyalty to the Mughal emperors. His disillusionment with the ceaseless intrigues and factionalism at the Mughal court in Delhi propelled him southward to the Deccan, where he established the foundations of the Hyderabad Kingdom, one of the most prominent and enduring states in modern Indian history. Ruling from 1724 to 1748, he founded the Asaf Jahi dynasty, which would govern Hyderabad for over two centuries until its integration into independent India in 1948. Of Indian and Turkic descent, Nizam ul Mulk navigated the turbulent decline of the Mughal Empire with astute diplomacy, military prowess, and administrative reforms. His titles—Chin Qilich Khan awarded by Aurangzeb in 1691, Nizam-ul-Mulk by Farrukhsiyar in 1713, and Asaf Jah by Muhammad Shah in 1725—underscore his ascent from a young warrior to a regal statesman. Born on 11 August 1671 in Agra and passing away on 1 June 1748, his life spanned a transformative era, blending Central Asian heritage with Mughal traditions and local Deccani influences. This account delves into his ancestry, familial background, military exploits, political maneuvers, and lasting legacy, highlighting how he transformed the Deccan into a semi-autonomous powerhouse while maintaining nominal fealty to the Mughals.

Nizams’ Ancestry.              www.osmanian.com

The ancestry of the Asaf Jahis traces its roots to the vibrant cultural and religious milieu of Central Asia, specifically the region around Samarkand in the kingdom of Bukhara. This lineage combined Turkic nomadic traditions with Islamic scholarship and Sufi mysticism, reflecting the diverse influences that shaped many Mughal nobles. The family claimed descent from the first Caliph Abu Bakr, a prestigious link that enhanced their religious authority among Sunni Muslims. This heritage emphasized piety, learning, and martial valor, qualities that were passed down through generations. The migration to India in the late 17th century was driven by opportunities in the expanding Mughal Empire under Aurangzeb, who actively recruited talented Central Asians for military and administrative roles. Upon arrival, the family integrated into the Mughal nobility, participating in key conquests and governance. This transition from Bukhara's scholarly courts to the Deccan's battlefields laid the groundwork for the dynasty's rise, blending Persianate culture with Indian realities. The Asaf Jahis' story is one of adaptation, where ancestral Sufi ideals merged with pragmatic statecraft, creating a legacy of multicultural rule in Hyderabad.

Great-Grandfather: Alam Sheikh.              www.osmanian.com

Alam Sheikh, the great-grandfather of Nizam ul Mulk, was a distinguished scholar and Sufi saint in the kingdom of Bukhara near Samarkand. Belonging to a lineage that traced back to Caliph Abu Bakr, he embodied the intellectual and spiritual depth of Central Asian Islam. Known for his profound knowledge in theology, jurisprudence, and mysticism, Alam Sheikh earned the title Alam-ul-Ulema, signifying his status as one of the most learned individuals of his era. He served as an advisor in the Bukhara court, where his wisdom influenced governance and religious practices. His marriage to a woman from the renowned Mir Hamdan clan of Samarkand further elevated the family's prestige, as this clan was associated with Syed descent, linking them to the Prophet Muhammad's family. Alam Sheikh's life was marked by a commitment to Sufi principles, emphasizing inner spirituality and ethical conduct. Although he did not venture to India, his legacy of scholarship and piety profoundly impacted his descendants, instilling values that Nizam ul Mulk would later incorporate into his administration. This foundation of learning provided the intellectual backbone for the family's military and political achievements in the Mughal Empire.

Grandfather: Khwaja Abid Khan

Khwaja Abid Khan Siddiqi, Nizam ul Mulk's grandfather, was a pivotal figure who bridged Central Asia and Mughal India. Leaving Samarkand, he joined Aurangzeb's service as a mansabdar, a ranked noble in the imperial hierarchy. His loyalty and bravery quickly endeared him to the emperor. In 1681, Khwaja Abid suppressed the revolt of Prince Akbar, Aurangzeb's rebellious son, earning the title Chin Qilich Khan, meaning "Lord of the Sword." During the early years of Aurangzeb's reign, he played a crucial role in consolidating administration and restoring peace amid internal strife. In 1686, he assisted in the conquest of Bijapur, a key Deccani sultanate, showcasing his strategic acumen. Aurangzeb rewarded him with the subedari of Bidar (also known as Zafarabad), followed by appointments in Ajmer and Multan. When Aurangzeb invaded Golconda in 1687, Khwaja Abid marched from Multan with his forces, losing his right arm in battle. Despite the injury, he vowed to return to fight, but succumbed on 30 January 1687, buried at Attapur near Golconda. His severed arm, found days later, was interred at Kismatpur. Khwaja Abid's ultimate sacrifice exemplified his devotion to the Mughals, setting a precedent of valor for his progeny.

Father: Ghazi ud-Din Khan Feroze Jung.              www.osmanian.com

Ghazi ud-Din Khan Feroze Jung, born around 1649 in Samarkand, was Nizam ul Mulk's father and a formidable Mughal general. Arriving in Delhi in 1668 to join his father, he was appointed a mansabdar with a rank of 300 zat and 70 horse by Aurangzeb. His military career flourished; he played a vital role in the campaign against the Rana of Udaipur, earning the title Khan. For his daring capture of Maratha leader Sambhaji in 1689, he received the title Firoz Jung, denoting "Victorious in War." His valor during the Bijapur siege brought the title Farzand Arjumand, "Beloved Son." In 1687, as army chief, he subjugated forts like Udgir and Adoni during the Golconda conquest. By 1705, after defeating rivals in Malwa, he was titled Sipah Salar and made subahdar of Elichpur, Berar, and Gujarat. Ghazi ud-Din's courage and strategic insight made him a constant companion to Aurangzeb in numerous battles. Married to Safiya Khanam, he fathered Mir Qamar-ud-din as his eldest son. His life, ending in 1710, was a testament to loyalty and bravery, profoundly influencing his son's path.

Nizam ul Mulk: Early Life and Family.              www.osmanian.com

Born on 11 August 1671 in Agra to Ghazi ud-Din Khan Feroze Jung and Wazir un-nisa Begum, Mir Qamar-ud-din Khan Siddiqi was named by Emperor Aurangzeb himself, foreshadowing his close ties to the throne. Raised in a noble household steeped in military tradition, he displayed warrior skills early, accompanying his father into battles before his teens. His mother, from a respected family, instilled values of piety and resilience. Nizam ul Mulk married Said un-nisa Begum, a Syed noblewoman from Gulbarga, with whom he had four children, including sons who would continue the dynasty. His family life balanced courtly duties with personal devotion, reflecting Sufi influences from his ancestry. This early environment honed his abilities in warfare, administration, and diplomacy, preparing him for a storied career.

Relation with Aurangzeb

Nizam ul Mulk's bond with Aurangzeb was forged in the crucible of war. At 17, in 1689, he joined the assault on Adoni fort, earning promotion to 2000 zat and 500 horse, along with an Arabian horse. By 19, for capturing Wakinkhera fort in 1705, he received Chin Fateh Khan and later Chin Qilich Khan, with rank elevated to 5000 horse and lavish rewards. At 26, he became Commander-in-Chief and Viceroy of Bijapur, Malwa, and the Deccan. Aurangzeb's trust in him stemmed from his tactical brilliance and loyalty during the protracted Deccan campaigns against Marathas and sultanates.

Life after Aurangzeb

Following Aurangzeb's death in 1707, Nizam ul Mulk served as Governor of Oudh until 1710, then retreated to private life in Delhi amid succession turmoil. In 1713, Farrukhsiyar persuaded him to become Viceroy of the Deccan, granting titles Nizam-ul-Mulk and Fateh Jung. Accused by rivals of building an independent power base while remitting funds to Delhi, he navigated court politics carefully.

Fight against the Sayyid Brothers.              www.osmanian.com

In 1719, Nizam ul Mulk aided Farrukhsiyar against the influential Sayyid Brothers, who deposed and killed the emperor. His efforts helped Muhammad Shah ascend, leading to his appointment as Grand Wazir.

As Grand Wazir

As Wazir from 1720 to 1722, Nizam ul Mulk attempted sweeping reforms to curb corruption, eunuch influence, and court decadence, aiming to restore Shah Jahan-era discipline. However, his strict measures alienated courtiers, who poisoned the emperor's mind against him, forcing his resignation.

Viceroy of the Deccan

In 1713, Farrukhsiyar appointed Mubariz Khan as Deccan's Viceroy, who restored order but paid only token tributes and favored family in posts. Disgusted, Nizam ul Mulk resigned in 1722 and marched to the Deccan to reclaim authority.

Battle of Shakar Kheda 1724

On 11 October 1724, at Shakar Kheda in Berar, Nizam ul Mulk decisively defeated Mubariz Khan. The battle was brief; Mubariz, wounded, charged on his elephant until death. His head was sent to Delhi as proof of Nizam's resolve. The emperor responded with an elephant, jewels, and the title Asaf Jah, instructing him to stabilize the region.

Establishment of the Asaf Jahi Dynasty

In 1724, Nizam ul Mulk inaugurated the Asaf Jahi dynasty in a modest ceremony, insisting on Mughal trust rather than independence. He divided the kingdom: one-third as Sarf-i-Khas (private estate), one-third Diwani (government expenses), and one-third jagirs to nobles like Paigahs, who served as generals. This system ensured revenue and loyalty, with jagirs fragmented to prevent rebellions. Coins and Friday prayers remained in the Mughal emperor's name until 1858, underscoring nominal allegiance.

Wars with the Marathas

In 1725, Nizam ul Mulk refused Maratha demands for chauth and sardeshmukhi, sparking war from August 1727 to March 1728. Defeated at Palkhed near Nashik by Baji Rao I, he faced further clashes. In 1730, his army boasted 1026 war elephants, 225 armored, during campaigns. Later battles like Bhopal in 1737 highlighted ongoing tensions.

Invasion of Nadir Shah.              www.osmanian.com

In 1739, Persian invader Nadir Shah advanced through Afghanistan and Punjab. Nizam ul Mulk joined Mughal forces at Karnal but was defeated on 24 February. Nadir entered Delhi, ordering a massacre after a quarrel. Amid the carnage, Nizam boldly intervened, reportedly saying, "You have taken the lives of thousands; if you wish to continue, bring the dead back to life and kill them again, for none remain." Moved, Nadir sheathed his sword, ending the bloodshed and departing for Persia.

Relations with the British

Nizam ul Mulk maintained firm control over his territory. In March 1742, the British from Fort St. George in Madras sent a hamper acknowledging his leadership. In return, he gifted a horse and jewelry but warned against minting currency, to which they complied. This interaction underscored his authority over European powers in the Deccan.

Administrative Reforms and Governance

As Deccan's Viceroy, Nizam ul Mulk headed executive and judicial branches, appointing officials and drafting laws. He raised armies, flew his flag, and formed a government while acknowledging Mughal farmans. His personal wealth from spoils, gold mines, and estates funded reforms. The Paigah nobles, second only to his family, managed vast estates, their grants enduring "as long as the sun and moon rotate." This feudal system persisted until 1950, providing stable income.

Titles

Nizam ul Mulk amassed numerous titles: Khan (1685), Khan Bahadur (1691), Chin Qilich Khan (1697 by Aurangzeb), Khan-i-Dauran Bahadur (1707), Ghazi ud-din Khan Bahadur and Firuz Jang (1712), Khan-i-Khanan, Nizam-ul-Mulk, and Fateh Jang (1713 by Farrukhsiyar), Asaf Jah (1737 by Muhammad Shah), and Amir ul-Umara and Bakshi ul-Mamalik (1739). His final titles included Chin Fateh Khan, Chin Qilich Khan, Nizam-ul-Mulk, Asaf Jah, Khan-i-Dauran Bahadur, Khan-i-Khanan, Fateh Jung, Firuz Jang, Ghazi-ud-din Bahadur, Amir-ul-Umara, and Bakhshi-ul-Mumalik.

Positions

His career featured key roles: Faujdar of Carnatic and Talikota (1701–1705), Bijapur, Azamnagar, and Belgaum (1705–1706), Raichur, Talikota, Sakkhar, and Badkal (1706–1707), Firoznagar and Balkona (1707), Subedar of Oudh and Faujdar of Gorakhpur (1707–1711), Subedar of Deccan and Faujdar of Carnatic (1713–1715), Faujdar of Moradabad (1717–1719), Subedar of Patna (1719), Subedar of Malwa (1719–1724), and Subedar of Gujarat (1722–1724).

Legacy and Death

Nizam ul Mulk's legacy lies in founding a dynasty that fostered cultural synthesis, economic prosperity, and administrative stability in Hyderabad. He died on 1 June 1748 at Burhanpur, aged 76, buried at Khuldabad near Aurangabad. His successors faced unrest, but his vision endured, shaping modern Telangana and beyond.