Nawabs Of Lucknow
Saadat Khan Burhan-ul-Mulk(1732-1739)
Title – Wakil-i-Mutlaq, Burhan ul-Mulk, Itimad ud-Daula, Nawab Sa’adat Khan Bahadur, Shaukat Jung
In the storied annals of Oudh’s history, a distinguished figure emerges in the person of Saadat Khan, Burhan-ul-Mulk, a scion of Persian nobility, whose singular destiny became inextricably entwined with the fortunes of a dynasty. Born of illustrious Saiyid lineage and nurtured in the mercantile arts, Muhammad Amin, later anointed Saadat Ali, embarked upon a remarkable odyssey from the distant shores of Persia in 1709, accompanied by his father and elder brother, to seek fortune in the resplendent realm of Hindustan.
Saadat Khan’s ascent through the Mughal hierarchy was marked by a series of distinguished appointments, including Mir Manzil (Camp Superintendent) to Nawab Sarbuland Khan, and subsequent promotions to Imperial mansabs of 1,000 sawars in the Walashahi Household Cavalry, culminating in the grant of 7,000 Zat and 7,000 Sawars. His titular honors included the esteemed designations of Sa’adat Khan Bahadur, Burhan ul-Mulk, and Shaukat Jung, accompanied by the insignia of royalty.
His illustrious career spanned various esteemed positions, including Captain of the Imperial Bodyguard, Naib Karori, Faujdar of Hinduan and Bayana, Subadar of Agra (Akbarabad), Faujdar of Farrukhabad, Etawa, and Jalaun, Subadar of Oudh, and Faujdar of Gorakhpur and Kora Jahanabad. The apex of his political ascendancy was marked by his investiture as Vicegerent of the Empire, with the title of Waqil-i-Mutlaq, conferred upon him by Emperor Nadir Shah of Persia on March 6, 1739.
A distinguished Persian poet under the pen-name ‘Amin’, Saadat Khan’s life remains shrouded in controversy regarding the circumstances of his demise. While some historians posit that he committed suicide by ingesting poison at the residence of Shahzada Dara Shikoh in Delhi on March 19, 1739, others maintain that he succumbed to incurable ailments, of which he was cognizant but seemingly indifferent. He departed this life leaving behind one son and five daughters, and was interred in the Mausoleum of Sayadat Khan, Delhi.
SafdarJung (1739-1753)
Title : Wazir ul-Mamalik-i-Hindustan, Asaf Jah, Jamat ul-Mulk, Shuja ud-Daula, Nawab Abu’l Mansur Khan Bahadur, Safdar Jung, Sipah Salar, Nawab Wazir of Oudh
Mansur Ali Khan, illustrious in the historical records as Safdar Jang (1739-1753), emerged as a distinguished scion of a noble lineage, being both nephew and son-in-law to the venerable Saadat Ali, his predecessor. Emulating the sagacity of his esteemed uncle, Mansur Ali assiduously cultivated imperial favor, achieving remarkable success that eclipsed his predecessor’s aspirations. His elevation to the exalted position of Vazir to the Delhi Emperor marked a watershed moment in his career, surpassing the ambitions of his illustrious uncle.
Upon the ascension of Ahmad Shah Bahadur (1748-1754) to the throne in Delhi in 1748, Safdar Jung’s statesmanship and dedication were rewarded with the coveted office of Wazir-ul-Mumalik-i-Hindustan, or Prime Minister of Hindustan. This distinction solidified his reputation as a visionary leader, further augmented by his appointments as governor of Ajmer and faujdar of Narnaul.
However, the treacherous undercurrents of court politics ultimately proved his undoing, leading to his dismissal in 1753. Returning to Oudh in December of the same year, he established Faizabad as his military headquarters and administrative capital, where he remained until his untimely demise in October 1754, at the youthful age of 46, in the town of Sultanpur, near Faizabad. Safdar Jung’s remarkable career, marked by both distinction and tragedy, serves as a testament to the complexities of 18th-century Indian politics.
Mausoleum of Safdarjang : In the majestic city of Delhi, a resplendent mausoleum stands as a testament to the memory of Safdarjang, its walls crafted from the warm, golden hues of red sandstone and the luminous sheen of marble. This architectural masterpiece is a marvel of octagonal design, comprising eight celestial chambers (hasht bihisht) arrayed around the central sanctum, sheltered beneath a soaring dome. Beyond its walls, a verdant garden unfolds, its quadrants a tranquil oasis in the heart of the city. This grandiose tomb and garden complex, unprecedented in its construction by one outside the immediate imperial Mughal dynasty, poignantly reflects the waning majesty of the emperors in an era of diminished splendor.
Shuja-ud-Daula (1753-1775)
Title : Wazir ul-Mamalik-i-Hindustan, Shuja ud-Daula, Nawab Jalal ud-din Hyder Khan Bahadur, Asad Jung (Arsh Manzil), Nawab Wazir of Oudh
The succession of Safdar Jang’s lineage devolved upon his son, Shuja-ud-Daula, a remarkable individual endowed with exceptional physical strength, military acumen, and a captivating presence. However, despite these inherent advantages, the third Nawab precariously balanced on the precipice of relinquishing the hard-won achievements of his predecessors, thereby validating the Italian proverb “Pride goes before a fall.”
Shuja-ud-Daula’s reign was marked by a bold course of action, as he seized the opportune moment to extract concessions from the waning authority of the Mughal Emperors. Historical accounts describe him as a towering figure, nearly seven feet tall, with oiled moustaches that projected from his face like outstretched eagle’s wings, indicative of his extraordinary physical prowess.
Although past his prime by 1763, he remained reputedly capable of remarkable feats of strength, such as severing a buffalo’s head with a single sword swing or lifting two officers, one in each hand. However, his liabilities, as noted by the 18th-century historian Ghulam Hussain Khan, who characterized him as “equally proud and ignorant,” tempered his remarkable strength and boldness.
Shuja-ud-Daula’s alliance with Shah Alam against the British, in support of the deposed Governor of Bengal, Mir Qasim, ended in ignominious defeats at Patna and Buxar, forcing him to flee to Bareilly while Shah Alam defected to the British. Nevertheless, fortune had not entirely abandoned Shuja-ud-Daula, as he was able to reassume control of the Subah following an audience with Lord Clive, contingent upon payment of war indemnity commensurate with campaign expenditures.
Thus, through Shuja-ud-Daula’s agency, Oudh became increasingly entwined within the expanding sphere of British influence. Throughout his reign, Shuja-ud-Daula primarily resided in Faizabad, although he spent considerable time in Lucknow towards the end of his tenure, finding it more conveniently situated. His mausoleum, located in Gulab Bari, Faizabad (Ayodhya), remains a testament to his enduring legacy
Asaf-ud-Daula (1775-1797)
Title : Madar ul-Muham, Wazir ul-Mamalik-i- Hindustan, Yar Wafadar, Rustam-i-Hind, Umdat ul-Mulk, Asaf ud-Daula, Nawab Mirza Yahya ‘Ali Khan Bahadur, Hizabir Jang, Sipah Salar, Nawab Wazir of Oudh.
The accession of Asaf-ud-daula, the fourth nawab wazir of Awadh, brought a great change in Awadh politics. Under the rule of Asaf-ud- daula the court of Lucknow became utterly magnificent and the town of Lucknow acquired great splendour. The capital was finally shifted from Faizabad to Lucknow in 1755 which contributed to its significant growth.
The most important outcome of Asaf-ud-daula consolidation of the court at Lucknow, was the emergence of a powerful shia culture, in constant interaction with the shia heart lands of Iran and Iraq. The increasing number of shia emigrants from Iranian cities veritably transformed Lucknow into a great intellectual centre.
Asaf-ud-daula was also a great builder: He built the ‘Daulat Khana’ as a residence for himself to the west of Macchi Bhawan, the Rumi Darvaza and the incomparable Bara Imam Bara. The Imam-Bara & the Rumi-Gate were constructed as a famine relief measure in 1784. Consciously designed by its architect Kifayatullah, the 164 feet long and 52 feet wide building is constructed in brick with high quality limestone. The arched roof of the Imam-Bara, which is built without a single beam, is the largest of its kind in the world. The strength of the edifices can be judged from the fact that although built over 212 years they still stand intact, maintaining their original dignity and grandeur.
The Bhulbhulaiya at Bara Imambara, is a unique labyrinth of intricate balconies and passages, with 489 identical doorways, which give the feeling of being lost.
He also built the Bibiyapur Kothi. It was built by Asaf-ud-daula as a country residence where he frequently resorted for hunting, of which he was passionately fond. The beautiful Chunhat Khoti was also built by Asaf-ud-Daula. General Claude Martin entered the court of Awadh under Asafuddaula, and created the plan of his ‘Constantia’, The Nawab was so overwhelmed by his design that he decided to purchase it with ten lakh gold coins. But before the transaction could be completed the Nawab departed for his heavenly abode in 1797, and was laid to rest in his magnificent lmambara.
Asaf-ud-Daulah’s life came to a close on September 21, 1797, at the age of 51, due to complications from dropsy. The dismissal of his favorite minister Raja Jhau Lal by Sir John Shore earlier that year had left him despondent, leading him to refuse all medical treatment
Wazir Ali (1797-1798)
Title: Madar ul-Muham, Wazir ul-Mamalik-i-Hindustan, Yar Wafadar, Rustam-i-Hind Fidvi, Asaf Jah, Burhan ul-Mulk, Itimad ud-Daula, Nawab Mirza Muhammad Wazir ‘Ali Khan Bahadur, Safdar Jang, Sipah Salar, Nawab Wazir of Awadh
Wazir Ali’s ascension to the throne of Awadh in September 1797, following the demise of his adoptive father, Asaf-ud-Daulah, was short-lived. His reign lasted for a mere four tumultuous months before being deposed for his violent anti-British views by Sir John Shore, the governor-general of India (1793–97).Wazir Ali’s claim to the throne was contested due to his dubious parentage. It is said that Wazir Ali was “Purchased from his mother shortly after his birth and smuggled into the zenana on the orders of the Nawab Wazir’s mother, Bahu Begum. Presented to the Nawab as his son by a palace concubine, accepted and raised to the titles of Khan Bahadur, Safdar Jang, Itimad-ud-Daula, Burhan ul-Mulk and Asaf Jah. Subsequently repudiated and disowned by Asaf ud-Daula, who denied paternity.”
Asaf-ud-Daulah, who had no son of his own, had adopted Wazir Ali, the son of his sister, and invested him as his successor. The Gazetter of Awadh (1877) records that Wazir Ali’s marriage, at the age of 13, was a grand affair, costing £300,000 even in those times, which is considered extravagance. However, his reign was marked by turmoil, and he was eventually replaced by his uncle, Saadat Ali Khan II.
Sir John Shore’s actions were motivated by a desire to consolidate British control over Awadh. As the British were keen to install a puppet ruler who would toe their line. Wazir Ali’s alleged disloyalty provided the pretext for his removal.
The events that followed are a testament to the tumultuous nature of Awadh’s politics during this period. Wazir Ali’s attack on George Frederick Cherry, the British Resident, and the subsequent Massacre of Benares, are well-documented in contemporary accounts. The Tourist Guide to Lucknow (1899) records that ” In 1799 Vazier Ali assassinated Mr. Cherry, at Benares, and raised a temporary rebellion, but was defeated, taken prisoner, and sent to Fort William. After many years of captivity there, he was transferred to the palace built for Tippu Sultan’s family in the Fort of Vellore, where he died in 1817..”
Wazir Ali’s rebellion was eventually quelled, and he was forced to flee to Rajputana, where he sought asylum with the Raja of Jaipur. However, he was eventually surrendered to the British authorities in December 1799 and imprisoned in Fort William, Calcutta, where he spent the remainder of his life in rigorous confinement.
Wazir Ali’s imprisonment was a symbol of British power and control over Awadh.The colonial government’s treatment of Wazir Ali was a clear indication of their intent to consolidate their hold over the region.
Wazir Ali’s life came to an end in 1817, after 17 years of imprisonment. He was buried in the Muslim graveyard of Kasi Baghan. His legacy serves as a reminder of the tumultuous nature of Awadh’s politics during the late 18th century and the eventual consolidation of British power over the region.
Saadat-Ali-Khan (1798-1814)
Title : Wazir ul-Mamalik-i-Hindustan, Yamin ud-Daula, Nizam ul-Mulk, Nawab Sa’adat ‘Ali Khan Bahadur, Mubariz Jang (Jannat Aramgah), Nawab Wazir of Awadh.
In 1798, following the ouster of Wazir Ali, Saadat Ali Khan, brother of Asuf-ud-Daulah, ascended the throne of Awadh, marking the beginning of a sixteen-year reign that would earn him the distinction of being the most sagacious and wisest ruler the kingdom had ever known.
Born as the second son of Nawab Shuja-ud-Daulah, Saadat Ali Khan was crowned on 21 January 1798 at Bibiyapur Palace in Lucknow, in the presence of Sir John Shore and the Governor-General, the Marquess Wellesley of Norroh. The Gazetteer of Awadh (1877) records, “Saddat Ali Khan, half brother to Asif-ud-daula (1798), took to building palaces and embellishing the city. He bought the Farhat Bakhsh, which is opposite the river next to the Chhatar Manzil, from General Martin for Rs. 50,000, and built the Terhi Kothi under the Residency, and the Lal Bérahdari, and the Dilérim opposite to the Chhatar Manzi], and the Dilkusha palace, which stands on some high land outside the city to the north of the present cantonments, and from which a fine view of the city, the river, and the surrounding plain may be had; and the Hay and Bakhsh (Banks’ bungalow), occupied before the mutiny by Major Banks, and now the residence of the Chief Commissioner, the Nur Bakhsh, the ‘Khurshaid Manzil, the Chaupar Stables, and Sikandar Bagh, within the walls of which such signal retribution befell the 2,000 of the rebel troops at the hands of Sir Colin Campbell’s force in November of 1857, and on west side of the city, the Saadatganj, which he ordered should be the only market-place of the city.”
As the historian, Sir William Sleeman, in his masterpiece – “A Journey Through the Kingdom of Oude” notes, “Saadat Ali Khan was a prince of great prudence and ability, and his reign was marked by a series of wise and beneficial measures.” Speaking about the qualities of Saadat Ali Khan, Sidney Hay, in Historic Lucknow writes that “except when he gave splendid and lavish banquets, Saadat Ali lived sparingly. His personal habits were frugal and economical, so that he earned a somewhat unjust reputation for parsimony and miserliness. But he gained an entirely new character during the latter and greater part of his reign as being the best administrator and the most sagacious ruler that Awadh had ever seen”
Despite being close-fisted in his habits, Saadat Ali Khan was willing to spend lavishly on projects that required it, as is evident from the numerous buildings he commissioned, including the Lal Baradari, Moti Mahal, Khurshid Manzil, and Dilkusha. Though Saadat Ali Khan was given to a habit of drinking, he, guided by his conscience, at Dargah Hazrat Abbas in Rustam Nagar “famed as the sanctuary, where Saadat Ali Khan made his celebrated vow to abstain from those forms of dissipation, which had marred his earlier career, a good resolution, to which the Nawab adhered, greatly to his own and his subjects’ benefit.” (An Illustrated Guide to Places of Interest with History and Map, Fourth Edition, Bombay : Lieut Col H.A.Newell.)
Speaking about his administration, PC Mookherji, in his famous book – The Pictorial Lucknow, writes- “Thus fettered by the manifold conditions, imposed by Sir John, Saadut Ali yet ruled his dominions with great tact and ability. All departments of his Government were organized ; offices were reformed ; and the services of able men were secured. Extravagant expenditure was put a stop to ; and strict economy was the order of the day. The refractory zemindars felt his power ; and the corrupt officials were compelled to disgorge their ill-gotten wealth. His subjects were happy ; the middle class had ample employment ; and the nobility, necessary comfort and luxury, — not extravagance. New palaces and markets were erected on all sides.”
Saadat Ali Khan passed away on the night of 11 July 1814 and was buried in the larger of the two tombs in Qaiserbagh, alongside his wife, Murshed Zadi, who was buried in the smaller tomb.
Ghazi-ud-din-Haider (1814-1819)
Title: Abu’l Muzaffar Muiz ud-din Shah-i- Zaman, Ghazi ud-din Haidar Shah Bahadur, King of Awadh
The seventh and last Nawab Wazir was his son, Ghazi-ud- din Haidar, is said to have been an enlightened and popular man. Bishop Heber, who visited Lucknow during his reign, describes his court as the most polished and splendid in India. He lived in the Farhat Bakhsh. Besides the magnificent tombs of his father, he built the Moti the Mubarak Mauzil, the Shat Manzil, the Qadam Rasul and the Wilayati Bagh. On the north side of the river he founded Badshahganj, in honour of the dignity bestowed on him by the British Government. He also constructed a canal known by his name, and built the Shah Najaf Imambada, in which he was buried. During his reign Mehdiganj in the Saadatganj aea was built, as also the Narahi Agha Mir, the work of the minister of that name. The same man also built the Sarai Agha Mir, and the Karbala near the Wingfield Park, which now forms a part of the Lucknow Zoo.
Five years after his accession, in the year 1819, the seventh and last Nawab was transformed into the first King of Awadh, by Lord Has tings, in recognition of services rendered the British Government. This increase of dignity was attended by a decrease of power. The resultant dynasty was one of weak kings, who played at royal state, while allowing the reins of government to slip from their heavily jewelled hands.
Following his ascension to power, Ghazi-ud-Din Haidar Shah asserted his authority by introducing a new coinage system, issuing coins in his own name, rather than in the name of the Mughal emperor Shah Alam II, beginning in AH 1234 (1818 CE). This marked a significant departure from the numismatic traditions of his predecessors. The most notable feature of his coinage was the introduction of his coat of arms on the reverse side, featuring two fish facing each other, two tigers each holding a pennon, and a katar (a small dagger) surmounted by a crown, symbolizing his sovereignty.
Stephen Markel, the eminent author, in his famous work- “The Dynastic History of Lucknow” writes “ In casting off the nominal yoke of Mughal subjugation to assert his sovereignty, Ghazi al-Din Haidar proudly proclaimed the fulfillment of the Awadh dynasty’s imperial aspirations. His assumption of an independent throne was aggressively promoted on behalf of the Company by Francis Rawdon-Hastings, 1st Marquess of Hastings, who was then Indian governor-general (1813–22). The long-term practical effect of the collusion was that Ghazi al-Din Haidar and his reigning descendants became entrenched in financial and political obligations that would help lead to the complete annexation of Awadh in 1856, and eventually to the establishment of formal British rule over India.”
During the reign of Ghazi-ud-Din, a significant cultural exchange occurred, marked by the appointment of British artists to the royal court. Initially, Robert Home (1752-1834) served as court artist until his retirement in 1828, followed by George Duncan Beechey (1798-1852), who succeeded him in the position.
Notably, in 1815, the esteemed Raja Ratan Singh (1782-1851) joined the court, bringing with him a wealth of knowledge in astronomy, poetry, and languages, including Arabic, Persian, Turkish, Sanskrit, and English. His influence led to the establishment of a royal lithographic printing press in Lucknow in 1821. This press facilitated the publication of the Haft Qulzum, a seminal two-volume dictionary and grammar of the Persian language, also in 1821. These developments underscore the cosmopolitan nature of Ghazi-ud-Din’s court and its patronage of arts and learning.
In Farhat Bakhsh’s hallowed halls, a monarch’s life did cease,
Ghazi-ud-din Haidar’s final breath, in Lucknow’s palace, released.
The year was eighteen twenty-seven, a date etched in time’s page,
As he departed, leaving behind a legacy to engage.
Nasir-ud-din Haider (1827-1837)
Title: Abu’l Nasir Qutb ud-din Sultan-i-Adil Naushirwan-i-Zaman, Sulaiman-i-Rozgar, Nasir ud-din Haidar Bahadur (Khuld Manzil), King of Awadh
Following the death of his father, Ghazi-ud-din Haidar, Nasir-ud-Din Haider ascended the throne on October 20, 1827, at the tender age of 25. His reign was marked by a fascination with women, wine, astrology, and astronomy. He expanded the Farhat Buksh palace, adding the Darshan Vilas in 1832, and constructed the Tara Wala Kothi, an observatory, under the supervision of Colonel Wilcox.
Nasir-ud-Din Haider was captivated by the latest technological advancements, including steamers, which he introduced to the Ganges. He generously supported the Bengal Steam Navigation Fund, ensuring himself access to the latest innovations. His court attracted European artists, including Robert Home and George Beechey, the latter serving as Comptroller of the King’s Household.
However, the king’s predilection for European influence led to exploitation by unscrupulous individuals, notably the barber de Russet, who allegedly swindled him out of 24 lakhs of rupees. Animal fights, particularly elephant and quail combats, became a fashionable pastime, with the latter taking place on the king’s dinner table.
Nasir-ud-Din Haider’s life was cut short when he was poisoned in the Farhat Bakhsh palace on the night of 7/8 July 1837. The British Government had already designated his successor, Nasir-ud-Doulah, one of the king’s uncles, who was hastily escorted to the palace upon news of the king’s death. The elderly and infirm Nasir-ud-Doulah retired to a small room until morning, marking the beginning of a new era.
In the somber shadows of Iradat Nagar, where the Gomti’s waters whisper secrets to the past, lies the final resting place of King Nasir-ud-din Haidar. Beside him, in eternal slumber, rests his beloved wife Qudsia Mahal, a testament to the transience of love and power. The once-mighty monarch, now reduced to a mere mortal, finds solace in the proximity of his cherished companion, their graves a poignant reminder of the fleeting nature of life.
Muhammad Ali Shah (1837-1842)
Title : Abul Fath Muin ud-din Sulaiman uz-Zaman Naushirwan-i-Adil, Muhammad ‘Ali Shah Bahadur, King of Awadh
Upon the demise of Nasir-ud-Din Haider, the audacious Badshah Begum endeavored to usurp the throne for her progeny, Munna Jan. However, her schemes were thwarted by the sagacious British Resident, who astutely nominated Mohammad Ali Shah, the deceased sovereign’s uncle, to ascend the musnad. Thus, on July 8, 1837, Mohammad Ali Shah, a paragon of leadership, commenced his reign at the resplendent Farhat Bakhsh Palace in Lucknow.
During his tenure, Mohammad Ali Shah devoted himself to restoring order and embellishing his capital with architectural marvels, including the exquisite Husainabad Imambara, Jama Masjid, and Satkhanda. Despite his extensive building projects, he bequeathed a substantial treasury of £800,000 upon his passing in 1842.
The erudite Prince Alexis Soltikoff, a Russian diplomat and traveler, described the Husainabad as a grand thoroughfare, replete with edifices of Eastern design and a gilded mosque. Mohammad Ali Shah’s legacy extended beyond his architectural achievements, as he established the Husainabad Endowment, a charitable trust dedicated to supporting religious and benevolent endeavors. This endowment, comprising a considerable sum of rupees, was entrusted to the government, which continues to take care of the trust and handles the charities as earmarked by the erstwhile king.
Mohammad Ali Shah’s reign, though brief, left an indelible mark on the annals of history, exemplifying his unwavering commitment to the welfare of his subjects and the beautification of his capital.
Amjad Ali Shah (1842-1847)
Title : Abu’l Zafar, Muslih ud-din, Sultan-i-‘Adil Khaqan-i-Zaman Muhammad Amjad ‘Ali Shah, Sipahr Shukoh Bahadur, King of Awadh
In the annals of history, Amjad Ali Shah’s reign, though brief, shines as a testament to the enduring legacy of his illustrious lineage. Like his father, he ruled for a mere five years, yet his impact on the city of Lucknow remains indelible. A stalwart adherent to the traditions of his house, he indulged in architectural endeavors, leaving an indelible mark on the city’s landscape.
His magnum opus, Imambada Sibtainabad, the majestic mausoleum opposite the erstwhile Delhi and London Bank, stands as a poignant reminder of his existence. The Iron Bridge, the Imambada Sibtainabad, and the metalled road to Canwpore and Hazrat Ganj, bear witness to his vision. His trusted minister, Amin-ud-Doulah, erected the magnificent Aminabad bazar and serai on the Kanpur Road, further solidifying Amjad Ali Shah’s reputation as a patron of grandeur.
His piety earned him the revered sobriquet “Hazrat,” and the locale of his eternal rest, Hazrat Ganj, bears his name, dispelling the misconception that it was named after Begum Hazrat Mahal.
The Prussian officer, Von Orlich, who joined the British Army, was granted an audience with the King in the resplendent Farhat Bakhsh, where he beheld Amjad Ali Shah’s imposing figure, adorned in opulent green silk, red silk pantaloons, and gold-embroidered shoes, his visage radiant with priceless jewels.
Amjad Ali Shah’s penchant for resplendent attire is well-documented, with four costly chains encircling his neck and a magnificent osprey surmounting his crown, ablaze with jewels. His palace boasted a dedicated table for an array of head-dresses, which he delighted in changing with frequency.
His life, though fleeting, was a testament to his unwavering commitment to the arts and his people. Amjad Ali Shah succumbed to cancer on February 13, 1847, at the age of 47, leaving behind a legacy that continues to inspire. His final resting place, Imambara Sibtainabad, has been lovingly restored by conservation enthusiast Mohammad Haider Rizvi and his team, in collaboration with the Archaeological Survey of India, where it is enlisted as a protected monument ever since 1919, ensuring its preservation for posterity.
Wajid- Ali-Shah (1847-1856)
Title: Hazrat Khalid, ‘Abul Mansur Nasir ud-din, Padshah-i-‘Adil, Kaiser-i-Zaman, Arangha Sultan-i-‘Alam, Muhammad Wajid ‘Ali Shah Bahadur, King of Awadh
Wajid Ali Shah, the last Nawab King of Awadh, ascended the throne on February 14, 1847 AD, with a promise of grandeur and cultural resurgence. His subjects adored him, and he reciprocated with a passion for music, drama, and literature, penning 50 books under the pseudonym “Akhtar”. Awadh flourished in trade, industry, and Urdu literature during his reign, as he built the magnificent Kaiser Bagh, a testament to his artistic inclinations.
However, his administration was marred by the abuse of power by Taluqdars, who exploited their positions of trust, leading to the eventual annexation of Awadh by the British on February 7, 1856 AD. Wajid Ali Shah refused to accept the offer of a titular kingship, and was exiled to Calcutta.
In his exile, he recreated a miniature Lucknow at Matiaburj, complete with a “second Kaisarbagh” and a menagerie, attempting to relive the glory of his former kingdom. His pension of a lakh of rupees per month failed to assuage his heartbreak, as he spent lavishly, trying to keep the memories of his beloved Lucknow alive. He divided his time between religious observances and his public activities showcasing his eclectic personality.
Despite his extravagance, Wajid Ali Shah’s legacy endured, a testament to his cultural achievements. He passed away on September 21, 1887, at the age of 67, a poignant reminder of the transience of power and the enduring legacy of his cultural pursuits. His story serves as a fascinating chapter in the annals of Indian history, a testament to the region’s rich cultural heritage.
Begum Hazrat Mahal(1820 –1879)
Begum Hazrat Mahal, a pioneering figure in India’s struggle for independence, was born in 1820 in Faizabad, Awadh (present-day Uttar Pradesh). She was the daughter of Miyan Ghulam Muhammad, a noble of the Awadh court, and his wife, Mehar Afza.
In 1847, she was married to Wajid Ali Shah, the last King of Awadh, and became the Begum of Awadh. After the British annexation of Awadh in 1856, Begum Hazrat Mahal played a pivotal role in the Indian Rebellion of 1857, leading the resistance against British rule in Awadh.
With her son, Mirza Birjis Qadr, by her side, Begum Hazrat Mahal skillfully navigated the complex web of politics and administration, forging alliances with other rebel leaders and maintaining a delicate balance between diplomacy and defiance. Her leadership and strategic acumen were instrumental in the rebellion’s initial successes.
Despite the rebellion’s ultimate defeat, Begum Hazrat Mahal’s courage, resilience, and leadership earned her a revered place in Indian history. She spent the remainder of her life in exile in Nepal, where she died on April 7, 1879.
The nation’s tributes to her memory include:
- Renaming Victoria Park in Lucknow as Begum Hazrat Mahal Park in 1962
- Issuance of a commemorative stamp on May 10, 1984
- Recognition as a pioneering figure in India’s struggle for independence
Her remarkable life serves as a testament to the power of courage, conviction, and leadership in shaping the destiny of a nation.
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