CAPF 2021

Post-Mughal Successor States

Authentic Past Paper Standard Evaluation

Who assumed the title Nizam-ul-Mulk Asaf Jah to become independent ruler of Hyderabad?

Solution & Analysis

Answer: D

Concept The rise of Hyderabad is a classic case of 'provincialization' where a high-ranking Mughal noble turned his governorship into a sovereign hereditary state as central power collapsed in Delhi.

Explanation Chin Qilich Khan was a prominent general under Aurangzeb. Following the chaos in the Mughal court under the 'Later Mughals,' he established his power in the Deccan. In 1724, he founded the independent state of Hyderabad under the title Nizam-ul-Mulk Asaf Jah.

Logical Breakup
Logic 1: He was the architect of the Asaf Jahi dynasty, which survived until Indian independence in 1948.
Logic 2: While he remained nominally loyal to the Mughal Emperor, he exercised all powers of a sovereign king, including making treaties and appointing officials.

Active Recall

Question

What led to the formal independence of Hyderabad?

Answer

The Battle of Shakr Kheda (1724), where the Nizam defeated the Mughal-appointed governor Mubariz Khan, securing his total control over the Deccan.

Core Insight

The Nizam’s rise proves that in the 18th century, territorial power belonged to those who could control provincial resources rather than those holding the throne in Delhi.