Hyderabad State

Hyderabad State was a princely state located in the south-central region of the Indian subcontinent with its capital at Hyderabad. It was established in 1724 by Asaf Jah I, who became its first Nizam. The state existed until 1948 when it was annexed by the Dominion of India through Operation Polo.

History

Hyderabad State was founded by Asaf Jah I in 1724 after the decline of the Mughal Empire. The state was ruled by the Nizams of the Asaf Jahi dynasty. The Nizams were known for their wealth and patronage of the arts, culture, and education.

During the British Raj, Hyderabad was the largest and most prosperous of the princely states in India. The Nizams maintained their sovereignty and had their own army, railway, and postal system. The state was known for its diamond and jewelry trade, and the Nizams were among the wealthiest individuals in the world.

Geography

Hyderabad State covered an area of approximately 82,698 square miles (214,190 km²). It was bordered by the Bombay Presidency to the west, Central Provinces and Berar to the north, Madras Presidency to the south, and Mysore State to the southwest. The state was divided into four divisions: Aurangabad, Gulbarga, Medak, and Warangal.

Demographics

The population of Hyderabad State was diverse, with a mix of Hindus, Muslims, and other communities. The official language was Urdu, but other languages such as Telugu, Marathi, and Kannada were also widely spoken.

Economy

The economy of Hyderabad State was primarily agrarian, with agriculture being the main occupation of the people. The state was also known for its rich mineral resources, including coal, limestone, and bauxite. The Nizams invested in infrastructure development, including the construction of dams, irrigation systems, and railways.

Annexation

In 1947, when India gained independence from British rule, the Nizam of Hyderabad, Mir Osman Ali Khan, sought to remain independent. However, the Indian government, led by Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, launched Operation Polo in September 1948, resulting in the annexation of Hyderabad State into the Dominion of India.

Legacy

Hyderabad State played a significant role in the history of the Indian subcontinent. The cultural and architectural heritage of the state, including landmarks such as the Charminar, Golconda Fort, and the Salar Jung Museum, continue to attract tourists and scholars. The integration of Hyderabad State into India marked a crucial step in the unification of the country.

See also

• Nizam of Hyderabad
• Operation Polo
• Asaf Jahi dynasty
• Hyderabad, India
• Princely state