BRIEF HISTORY BHOPAL PRINCIPALITY CENTRAL INDIA. FROM THE PERIOD OF ITS FOUNDATION, ABOUT ONE HUNDRED AND FIFTY YSSlRS AGO, TO THE PRESENT TIME.- BY WILLIAMjaOlIGH, MAJOR, - PRINTED AT THE BAPTjfeT M CIRCULAR 1845. INTRODUCTION. The exact period when Dost Mahomed founded the Bhopal principality is not stated in any printed work. He was born in the year 1657, and came, when young, to Delhi, it may be supposed, about the year 1680. It is, therefore, probable that the Bhopal princi- pality was founded about 150 years ago ; at a period when many of the existing principal Native powers were but small states. In the year 1778, when the Bombay and Supreme Government had determined to place Ragoba (Ragonath Rao} on the throne of Poonah, as Peshwah, a measure distasteful to the principal party at that Court, and to the Mahrattahs ; the latter confederated against the Bombay Government, and assembled, as acknowleged by themselves, 60,000 horse. The Bombay Government sent a force consist- ing of 4,000 men (of whom there were 700 IV Europeans) to accompany Ragonauth Rao, who had a force of 20,000 men, to Poonah. The Bombay force was surrounded in the Bhore Ghat and on the 15th of January, 1779 , was compelled to sign the memorable treaty of Wurgaum. General Goddard was then* on his march to assist the Bombay Government, but was at a considerable distance It is stated in the Annual Register for 1782 (1) that "they (the Bombay Committee) informed Sindia they had brought a blank paper signed and sealed by the committee and principal military officers, which the Mahrattah chiefs were to fill up as they pleased. Sindia, with moderation and wisdom, advised the Mahrat- tah council not to take any unreasonable advantage of their own power, and of the dis- tress and necessity of the English: for, he said, 'our making large demands would only sow resentment in their hearts, and we had better demand only what is necessary. Let Rago- nauth Rao, be with us, and the treaty between us and the English will be adhered to/ " This Sindia was Madhajee Sindiah, the uncle of Dowlut Rao Sindiah mentioned in this work. (1) Page 15 to 22 History. I have no where else found this information. BHOPAL PRINCIPALITY. THE PRINCIPALITY OF BHCM?AL THE History of the Bhopal Principality is one of the most interesting of the Native States iu India (1). The Mahomedan and Hindoo authorities, though they agree as to the principal facts in the life of Dost Maho- med Khan, the founder of the Bhopal family, are at variance with regard to several of the details connected with his establishment of independent power. This chief came, when young, from Afghanistan to Delhi, where he entered the service of a nobleman (2), of the same Affghan tribe, (3) to which he himself belonged. Dost Mahomed appears shortly after his arrival to have quitted the service of his countryman, and entered that of the emperor Aurungzeb. He was one of the (1) Sir John Malcolm m his " Central India/' vol I pp 349 to 425, 3rd edition, 1S32, has given a very interesting account of the Nuwabs of Bhopal, from which, and from the works of Cap- tain James Grant Duff, and H. T. Prmsep, Esq., I have chiefly taken my information (2) JelalKhan. (3) The Mirajee Kheil. B party detached into Malwa, where he suc- ceeded in bringing himself to the notice of the governor of the province by his gallantry, and was in consequence rewarded by a nomina- tion to the superintendence of the district of Bersiah(4), the revenues of which aie stated to have been then greatly reduced by the unceasing depredations of freebooters. The progress of Dost Mahomed subsequent to this period uas very rapid. He first became possessed of Jnddeespoor, which was changed into the Mahomedan name of Ifelamnuggur, and became the capital of Dost Mahomed He next obtained possession of Bhopal, where he settled with his family and their adherents, whom he hajj invited from Afghanistan Dost Mahomed after this captured Cheynpoor Bar- ree and Gunnour, when he increased his army, and adopted measures to enable him to preserve the territories he had obtained. He built a citadel within the limits of the town of Bhopal, which he named Futtygurh ; having connected this with the town and enclosed the latter by a wall, gave to the whole a security which was indispensable to the object he had in view, viz. to increase the population and prosperity of his capital. About three years before the death of Dost Mahomed Khan, Nizam-ul-Moolk, who was (4) A town in the Mahrattah territories, in the province of Malwa, 30 miles fiom Bhopal, lat 23 42' N. long. 77 32' E. proceeding towards the Dekhan fro in Malwa, (of which province he had been for a short time governor), sought the friendship of the AfFghan chief against the Court of Delhi, which treatened him with an attack Dost Mahomed, from political motives, not only declined the Nizam's alliance, but acceded to*the requisition of his enemies, by aiding them with a force under his brother (Meer Mahomed Khan), who was slain in an action that ensued, in which the Nizam obtained the victory. The AfFghan chief, alarmed at having incurred the resentment of so powerful a prince, offered his, then, only son (Yar Mahomed Khan) as an hostage for his future good con- duct. The Nizam satisfied witlj this pledge, left him in tranquil possession of the countries he had subdued, and formed into a principality Dost Mahomed died at the age of 66 (5). He assumed the title of nuwab after the death of Aurungzeb, and it was amid the disturbances of that period that he formed the Principality of Bhopal. Whatever might have been his de- fects, there can be no doubts of his talents He was deemed, even in a tribe where valour is a common quality, a man of remarkable courage. His life was for more than 30 years (5) As Auinngzeb died on 21st Febiuaiy 1707, the Bhopal Puncipality must have been formed about 40 years ago, as Do&t Mahomed came to Hmdostan some years before the emperor's death one scene of warfare ; he had received in ac- tion above 30 wounds ; and his memory as a soldier is still fondly cherished by the family of which he was the founder. 1733 On the death of Dost Mahomed Khan, the ministers at the Court of Bhopal elevated Sultan Mahomed Khan to the musnud, or throne, to the prejudice of his elder brother, Yar Ma- homed Khan, who had been carried into the Dekhan as an hostage by Nizam-ul-Moolk The pretext for this act was the absence of Yar Mahomed Khan ; but the real motive was a desire to conduct the affairs of the state during a long minority. Sultan Mahomed Khan was a child of 7 or 8 years of age, while his absent brother was youth of 18 or 20. The attempt, however, was not successful. The cause of Yar Mahomed was espoused by Nizam-ul- Moolk, and he was sent to Bhopal with the title of nuwab, escorted by a thousand horse. He also received from Nizam-ul-Moolk the high insignia of the Maha Muratib, or the dignity of the Pish, one of the first honors of the Moghul empire. This is still assumed as a hereditary honor by the nuwabs of Bhopal No opposition was made to his return ; but though Sultan Mahomed Khan was compel- led by the puthari chiefs to abdicate, they would not instal Yar Mahomed as Prince, being an illegitimate son ; on the pretext that the usages of his tribe prohibited his inheriting the name of Prince ; but, that there was no ob- jection to his exercising all the royal functions (6) The arrangements which took place on this occasion explain the origin of feelings which still exist, and give to theputhan colony aft Bhopai a very peculiar constitution When Dost Mahomed had, after his first successes, invited his brethren and kinsmen to join him, they were accompanied by his elder brother, Akii Mahomed Khan, who being at the head of a party attached to the usages of their coun- try, with a view to keep these unchanged, established certain rules for the regulation of all their personal and family affairs, which were deemed as imperative upon their chiefs and princes as upon the most obscure indivi- duals of the tribe. Akil Mahomed Khan was first in rank among these AfFghans, and his excellent character merited the distinction which his birth and their good opinion assign- ed him. This respectable nobleman was dewan, or prime minister. On his death (7), (6) Major Henley states, m his notes upon the Bhopai family, that Yar Mahomed's succession to power aiose from motives of policy, rather than fiom any precise rule on the subject Akil Mahomed (the elder bi other of Dost Mahomed) haw the neces- sity of complying as much as possible with the wishes of the Nizam, but it was settled that on Sultan Mahomed's enteungthe Durbar, Yar Mahomed should from courtesy rise to leceive him, and moving aside fiom the musnud, allow him to sit on the nsht (7) Akil Mahomed Khan was murdered at the hoolee He was great-grand-father to Kurreem Khan, who was dewan in 1832 6 the office was conferred on Byjeeram, a Hin- doo, to whom Islarnnuggur owes its principal improvements : he built a palace, and augment- ed its strength by diverting the course of the Parwah, so as to make that river a ditch to its fortifications. 1737. There are few particulars given of Yar Mahomed's life. He was succeeded by his eldest son (8), Feyz Mahomed Khan, who was then 11 years of age. The pretensions of his uncle, Sultan Mahomed Khan, were again brought forward by a strong party of Affghan lords. Feyz Mahomed, however, had been placed on the throne, and the army, amount- ing to 5000 men, remained firm to his interests. Supported Ijy them, he-made every prepara- tion to resist the attack with which he was threatened The Mahjee Sahibah, or lady mother (as the widow of Yar Mahomed was called), despatched a man of religious charac- ter, named Shah Allum, with a body of Hohil- lahs (puthans), to seize Sultan Mahomed The latter at first concealed himself, but in an affray which followed, Shah Allum was killed, and his party repulsed. On this intel- ligence reaching Islainnuggur, Byjeeram, with the young nuwab and his followers, immedi- ately advanced towards Bhopal ; and Sultan (8) Yai jMdhoined had four sons, Feyz Mahomed Khan, Hiyat Mahomed Khan, Yassein Mahomed Khan, and Seid Mahomed 7 Mahomed with his Affghans marched to re- ceive them. Imitating the usage of the Hin- doo saints and warriors, they dyed their garments with yellow (9), the hymeneal colour, which indicated, that they went to battle as t& a bridal feast., and were determined to die, or to live exulting conquerors. Byjeeram, whose numbers were superior, saw with pleasure his enemies quit the protection they had in the walls of Bhopal. He drew up in line of battle ; but his troops, who were chiefly Hindoos, would probably have been broken by the furious charge of the Affghans, had not these, when exhausted by their first success, been attacked, and in their turn routed by the desperate Rohillahs of Shah Allum, who continued faithful to the cause of Peyz Mahomed, and were eager to revenge the death of their late commander. The assailants were in their turn, defeated; their chief, Sultan Mahomed, fled to Seronj, whence he went to the hill fort of Rathgurh, into which he was ad- mitted by the governor. Here, he was imme- diately besieged by Byjeerarn ; but the Mah- jee Sahibah, or lady 'mother, seeing the evil of these family dissensions, interposed her au- thority, through the influence of which Rath- (9) A dye made from the flower called Kuswur in Hindoos- tanee. Using it on the day of battle, is among the Hindoos deemed a sacred pledge to die or conquer. Volunteers are often invited to assume the yellow dress, which implies desperation in any undertaking pal attained a state of considerable pros- perity under his management. He conciliated the Gonds (13), who are the aboriginal inha- bitants of the southern portion of the Bhopal territory. On Byjeeram's death he was succeeded by his son Gassyram, who had only been in office a twelve month, when he was destroyed by two puthan noblemen. Gassyram is said by the Affghan biographers to have conferred all offices on his Hindoo favorites, and even to have cut off the noses of butchers who at- tempted to kill oxen or buffaloes ; and this account is confirmed by some respectable Hindoo writers. (11) It was taken m 1798, but recaptured by Vizier Maho- med. (12) This numerous class of Hindoos denominated Gonds, from their inhabiting Gondwarra, once held a high rank among the natives of this part of India, but they have been successively raduced by the Mahomedans and M ah rattans/ toh a very low state. This tribe, who inhabit both banks of theNerbudda, flora near its source to as far west as Ongkar Mundatta, are spread over the greatest part of the Nagpoor territories They have a language and usages distinct from other classes of Hindoos. C 10 On the death of Gassyram, a puthan named Ghyrut Khan succeeded to the office of dewan, which he held for six years, whenhe was poi- soned by a courtesan. His successor was raja Keisoree, of the Kayastha tribe (13), who had been a writer with Byjeeram : he was a man of talent, and the country prospered for 14 years under his superiiidence ; but he chi&fly owes his celebrity to the circumstance of his massacre Feyz Mahomed Khan, who had embraced a life of austerity and devotion, had still a har- ani filled with ladies: amongst them there was one known by the title of Begum, or prin- cess, a native of Delhi Owing to some in- trigue being suspected, between the son of the minister (Keisoree) and the daughter of Ashruff Khan, some puthan noblemen planned the minister's destruction. Both he and his son were murdered Keisoree's widow, on hear- ing this, destroyed herself and the females of the family, by blowing up her house with gunpowder The explosion caused by this event gave the first information to Peyz Mahomed of the fate of his minister, whose death he is said to have deplored. Yesseiri Khan, the nuwab's brother immediately as- sumed the functions of minister of the state,. Nuwab Peyz Mahomed Khan, who had, nominally, governed Bhopal for 38 years, did (13) All writers and accountants. 11 not long survive this event : he died of a dropsy, brought on by his sedentary habits, in the 48th or 49th year of his age. This prince was throughout his life a religious recluse, of very weak intellect, and of an enormous sta- faire, being nearly seven feet high, and his hands, when he was standing, reached below his'knees. He never but once went beyond the precincts of his palace Ghyrut Khan, when minister, carried him to Bhiisa, which had been for some time besieged, and it happened to fall soon after his arrival. The belief, which the ignorant Affghans entertained of the holy character of their chief was confirmed by this occurrence, and his memory is revered as that of a saint Feyz Mahomed had no issue His brother Yessein Mahomed Khan was at the head of the government during the few days he survived him. At his death, Hiyat Mahomed Khan was proclaimed rmwab ; but he was also, from disposition auJ habits, a religious recluse, and the actual exorcise of power continued with the person who held the office of minister. 1775. The whole revenue of Bhopal at this time amounted to about 20 lakhs of rupees, of which a portion of five lakhs value in land was set aside for the support of the imwab. With this the minister had no concern ; it was man- aged in an office separate from those of the government, and the amount collected was c 2 12 appropriated according to the pleasure of the prince ; but, beyond this, he and his personal attendants were considered to have no further claim on the public treasury, or any connexion whatever with state affairs. The history of Bhopal, while thjs system continued, conbiste in the proceedings of the dewans, or ministers. Hiyat Mahomed Khan, when installed nuwab, had no children by his wife, but he had adopted four chelahs (14), or family de- pendants, who were considered almost as rela- tions. The eldest of these, Fowlad Khan, was the son of a Gond. The second, Jumshere Khan, was the son of a Gossein ; and the third arid fourth, Chutta Khan and Islam Khan, were the sons of a brahmin. The merit of having withdrawn these children from their errors, to the true faith, no doubt, constituted, in the mind of a pious Mahomedan prince, another tie to strengthen that of adoption. Fowlad Khan, the eldest of the chelahs, was the first who possessed the power of minister. 1778. It was during his administration that the army under General Goddard passed through the territories of Bhopal. The inha- bitants of the country are justly proud of the part their prince took upon this occasion ; and with reason, for it was bold and decided (14) Chelah means, literally, an adopted dependant; it neither applies to a slave, nor an adopted child, but to a person who is admitted to the claims of a dependant relation. 13 in a degree beyond what their condition war- ranted. Every aid required was freely given by this state ; and, from the certificates still preserved by some of the heads of villages, it would seem that all ranks behaved in the most friendly manner to a^ body of men, who prized such conduct the more from hav- ingf in other parts of their route, met with nothing but hostility. That the remaining part of the march of the Bengal force., after it passed the Nerbuddah, was unobstructed, may in some degree be ascribed to the con- duct pursued by the puthans of BhopaL, whose behaviour on this memorable occasion, established a claim upon the British Govern- ment, which merited ajl the notice it has since received. In an official abstract made from the correspondence of General Goddard (15), it is stated that every effort was made to render the nuwab of Bhopal hostile to the English, but in vain ; he remained true to his first promise of friendship, though many of his fields and villages were, in consequence, plun- dered by the Mahrattahs. In addition to the testimony of Major Ge- neral, Sir John Malcolm, may be given the account of another officer, who had ample (15) Sir John Malcolm says, " I obtained this abstract of the proceedings of the Bengal detachment at Bombay. There are no records of the pi ogress of this corps in the political office at Calcutta." means of learning the nature of the friend- ship of the nuwab of Bhopal. Captain James Grant Duff, of the Bombay Army, in his His- tory of the Mahrattahs (16) states, that Cf Colo- nel Leslie having died of a fever on the 3rd of October 1778, Colonel Goddard immediately assumed the command of the troops, and in a few days afterwards, commenced his mdrch from Raj egurh (17), in Bundelkund, towards the Nerbuddah. His route lay by Mooltan, Khemlassa, Beilsah, Bhopal and Hoossinga- bad ; at the last mentioned place he forded the Nerbuddah on the 2nd of December. Before Colonel Goddard had quitted the Bundelkund territory, Ballajee Punt, the Mahrattah officer stationed at^ Sagur, by. whose machinations Leslie's progress was at first arrested, after many professions of friendship, made a per- fidious attack on the baggage of the army, in which he was completely foiled. The conduct of the Nuwab of Bhopal was precisely the reverse of that of the Mahrattah officer; he treated the English with the greatest con- fidence and hospitality, furnished them with every supply and every possible assistance, at the risk of incurring future enmity from the Mahrattahs, without the support of his new (16) Vol II. p. 384. A. D 1826. Foirnerly political Resi- dent at Satara. (17) A town on the west side of the river Cane, 18 miles south-east from Chattel poor, in Btindelkund 15 friends. This generous behaviour, on the part of the Nuwab, was never forgotten ; and it laid the foundation of a friendship, which, in modern times, has been laudably extended to his descendants by the British Government. After Colonel Goddard had grossed the Ner- buddahj he halted on the south bank of the river, to await some communications from Moodajee Bhonslay, particularly connected with his future operations/' There is a third testimony regarding the above transaction from the pen of H. T. Prinsep, Esq. (18), who had deeply studied the political affairs of India, and who, from his official position, had full knowledge of his subject. He says, alluding to the principality of Bhopal: ee On a former occasion, when General Goddard was sent by Warren Hastings with an expedition from Hindoostari, in exe- cution of his sagacious plan of alarming the Mahrattah powers, then confederated against us, into the acceptance of his own terms, by penetrating through the very heart of their possessions, the existence of this (Bhopal} in- dependent principality was one of the prin- cipal encouragements to make the attempt. (18) Narrative of the Political and Military Operations of Biiush India under the administration of the Marquis of Hastings, 1813 to 1818 Quarto Edition, 1820, p. 39. Mr Prmsep was Persian Secretary to the Governor General, afterwards Secretary to the Government of India; and lastly a member of the Supreme Council of the Government of India. 16 The family are still in possession of the strong- est testimonials from General Goddard of the important services rendered him by the reigning Nuwab (Hit/at Mahomed Khan) (19) ; indeed, the ultimate success of the enterprise, and the final accomplishment of that officers wonderful march across an enemy's country all the way to Surat, were mainly to be attri- buted to his having found this principality in a state of independence, and hostility to the Mahrattahs, midway on his line of march/' Thus there are three well known authorities in proof of the friendly aid given by Bhopal, at a time when a British force was marching across India to the assistance of the Bombay Government, at a most .critical period of the affairs of the*East India Company. This assist- ance was afforded by a state which had no- thing, apparently, to gain by such a generous act while it is clear that it risked its very in- dependence as a state, the moment the British force marched from the southern bank of the Nerbuddah. The result proved the danger it was exposed to, for Sir John Malcolm states that " many of his (the nuwab's) fields and villages were, in consequence of his fidelity to his engagement, plundered by the Mahrattahs." What other state, or power, has ever acted in a similar manner towards the British Govern- ment ? The records of history are silent on the (19) Grandfather of the present Begum mother of BhopaL 17 subject : no parallel can be produced. Bbopal was not, at this time, in alliance with the British Government ; nor under stipulation to assist the Army of General Goddard, it was, there- fore, a generous, disinterested act, to which a parallel cannot be found in the history of Bri- tish India * Soon after the above events, a family quar- rel occurred, in which Jowlad Khan was slain, in an attempt to capture the old fort of Bhopal; then the residence of the widow of Yar Mahomed Khan ; who, from disgust at his resolute and tyrannical acts, had for some time resolved to subvert his authority, and to raise to power Chutta Khan, who she had taken care should be well instructed, that he might be competent to the dutieS of the high station. The history of this extraordinary princess, who lived to the advanced age of 80, and who for more than half a century greatly influenced, if she did not control, the councils of Bhopal, is very extraordinary. Her name was Mumullah; she came from Upper Hin- doostari. Though never publicly rnanied (20) to the Nuwab, Yar Mahomed, she became the principal lady of his family. She had herself * It is to be hoped that the records of the above expedition may be requested to be sent to Calcutta, as they are much requned to illustrate borne important operations of the Bengal Army (20) The Nikah was perfoimed on her union with the Nuwab. This engagement, thoiigh inferior to marriage, is still respectable. It is common where the condition of the parties is too unequal to admit of one more legitimate. D 18 no children, but all those of Yar Mahomed she considered as her own, and the title of Mahjee Sahibah, or Lady Mother, which was given her by them and all others, proves the respect in which she was held. From the account given of her conduct, under the most trying circumstaji- ces, it seems difficult to pronounce, whether she was most remarkable for the humanity oher disposition, or the excellence of her judgment. She was beloved and respected by all. Her memory is still cherished by the natives, both Hindoo and Mahomedan, of Bhopal, and it is consoling to observe, in the example of her life, that, even amid scenes of violence and crime, goodness and virtue, when combined with spirit and sense, maintain that superiority, which belongs alone to the higher qualities of human nature; and which, without these, can be permanently conferred by neither title nor station. This virtuous woman had every reason to congratulate herself on her choice of Chutta Khan, who proved throughout his life, the friend of the poor, and the promoter of order and tranquillity ; but, the determined resolu- tion with which he pursued these objects, brought him into violent collision with several of the principal nobles of the state, some of whom were his enemies from the first, being indignant at the elevation of one whom they deemed so much their inferior. Two brothers, 19 Kumal Mahomed and Sheriff Mahomed, who were nearly related to the Nuwab, on the fail- ure of a plot to possess themselves of Gunnour, retired with about 700 followers to wards Sahore. Chutta Khan pursued them, and, in an engage- ment which took place, Sheriff Mahomed was slain. Kumal Mahomed effected his escape, though wounded, with the son of his brother. The latter, Vizier Mahomed, then a youth, lived to preserve his country ; and to become the founder of the present family of Bhopal Among the conspiracies formed against the power of Chutta Khan, one of the most re- markable was that of Nijabut Mahomed Khan, a turbulent Puthan chief, the son of Yassein Mahomed khan, whose object was to murder the Nuwab and ministers. This tragedy was to be acted on the last day of the Ramazan, when all the Affghans of the Nuwab's family were assembled at the house of the Mahjee, or Lady Mother, to pay their respects to that princess. The alarm of treason was given by a domestic, and the fierce chief, finding he was discovered, flew at the Nuwab, but was overpowered and slain, not without a great struggle, as he is represented to have been a man of immense strength and desperate courage. Three of the principal conspirators were killed at the same time ; but not before they had cut down Rajah Bholanath, one of the principal Hindoo officers of the Government. D 2 20 The above events, and others of a similar character, greatly irritated the mind of Chutta Khan, and urged him to very severe, if not oppressive, measures. This change of con- duct is generally attributed to the death of the princess, by whom he had been raised to the high station of minister. He had certainly acted with great prudence and moderation while she lived, from respect to her advice, and confidence in her support; but when left alone, he saw his safety in another course. Enraged by the frequent conspiracies of the nobles against his power, he put to death some and expelled others. He removed this class from all offices of trust, \vhich were filled exclu- sively by persons on whose attachment he could rely. He established such a police within the walls of Bhopal, as completely suppressed the sanguinary affrays, to which some Pathans are so prone, and their turbulent spirit was for the moment subdued. By these means, Chutta Khan not only maintained internal quiet, but promoted, beyond all who had gone before him, the prosperity of the town, and country of BhopaL His next object was to remain at peace with his neighbours, but par- ticularly with Madhojee Sindiah, arid Ahalya Baee, who were, at this time, the chief rulers in central India. His principles of moderation were sometimes carried to an extent that as- tonished many* Of this, the following in- 21 stance may be given A few years before his death, the Pindary leader, Hera Baee, plun- dered and burned some villages of Bhopal. Chutta Khan sent troops in pursuit of the de- predators ; and they returned with 400 naked prisoners, who had been stripped of their horses and clothes. When these people ex- pected to I;e put to death, they were surprised to hear Chutta Khan direct that they should be released, and that each man should have a turban and a rupee to carry him back to his home, " Take this/' he exclaimed, ec but re- collect you shall have other treatment if you come again into my country/' AVhen those around him looked surprised, he said, these poor creatures are, of themselves, no objects of vengeance ; their leaders, from their con- nexion with the Mahrattah chiefs, are above my power; why outrage by useless violence those whose employers we cannot punish? They will now feel obliged by my humanity to their followers, who were in my power; and it will be an additional motive to make them refrain from attacking us." This occurrence and Chutta Khan's speech were stated by Khealee Ram, then a writer in his office, who witnessed and heard what he narrates, nor was Chutta Khan mistaken : during his life there were no more inroads made by these freeboot- ers on the territories of Bhopal. Chutta Khan was not above 40 years of age 22 when lie died. Though he had been brought up a Mahomedan, he appears to have continu- ed as much a Hindoo in his disposition, as he was in his appearance. He was of a moderate stature, slight make, temperate in his lan- guage, and smooth in his manners ; he coirf- bined art with resolution, and was, in short, in every thing, the opposite of that tribe" to which he belonged by adoption. On the death of Chutta Khan, efforts were made by several persons to obtain possession of his wealth. Nawaub, a Puthan officer, who had long been in his service, tried to make himself master both of his treasure and the Government ; but after several acts of great violence, he vvas forced to leave Bhopal, carry- ing with him property to the supposed amount of six lakhs of rupees. He left the unprotect- ed family of his late master to the oppression of their enemies The widow, after being plundered of every thing, was glad to escape alive. She was, in 1832, at Seronj, dependent for daily food on the Nuwab, Ameer Khan. Her only son, Ameer Mahomed, said to be a worthless character, w r as at the above time, one of the poorest followers of Guffoor Khan at In- dore. Such has been the fate of the family of a man, who, by his management, raised Bhopal to the highest state of prosperity. But these reverses of fortune are too common in India to excite attention^ much less commiseration. 23 1798. Himtnut Row, a native of Upper Hin- doostan, who had been during almost the whole of Chutta Khan's administration at the head of the revenue department, now received the title of Rajah, and was created Dewan, or Minister ; but during; the twelve months he held this office, he had hardly any power. Every thing was done by the Beebee (so Hiyat Mahomed Khan's favorite lady was called), and a eunuch of the name of Gul Khojah, in whom she confided ; and among other ruinous expedients to which these persons had recourse to avert the clangers that threatened Bhopal, amidst the confusion which at this period prevailed in Central India, Luckma Dada 3 one of Sindiah's independent leaders was called upon as an auxiliary, and promised high pay and reward if he would recover the Fort of Hoshungabad, which had, immediately after the death of Chutta Khan, been attacked and taken by Ragojee Bhonslah, whose armies, aided by large bodies of Pindarries, had begun to lay waste the territories of Bhopal. While these events threatened the destruc- tion of this state, a person made his appear- ance as its defender, in a manner which gives to his history an air of romance which con- tinued to its close. He came to the gate of the city,, habited as a soldier of fortune, and attended by some well-mounted adherents, and on being stopped by the guard, proclaimed 24 himself to be Vizier Mahomed, the son of Sheriff Mahomed Khan, the cousin of the reigning Nuwab (Hiyat Mahomed Khan), with whom he desired an interview. This was in- stantly granted. The Nuwab, after the first salutation, asked him how he had subsisted during his absence from Bhopal. He frank- ly avowed that,, having been banished ftom his native country by the power of Chutta Khan, against whose administration his father had rebelled, he had been compelled to earn his livelihood by serving Huttee Singh, a plun- dering Rajpoot chief in the province of Omut- warra (21). He had learnt, he said, the pro- fession of a soldier ; and the reports which he heard of the distress and danger of the land of his ancestors, had made him determine, at all hazards, to offer his services, and to give his life (it was all he had), in any way the Nuwab pleased, for his country. The old prince was roused from his usual state of abstraction by the occurrence. He gave to Vizier Maho- med the endearing title of son, and hailed him (with a spirit of prophecy) as the future saviour of the state. 1799 The period was one of action. The troops of Nagpoor were besieging Hoshunga- bad, and the depredations of the Pindarries (21) Omutoarra between 24 and 25 north latitude. Malcolm, p. 374=, (A. D. 1798,) says, " a youth made his appearance," &c. Visier Mahomed must have been at least 30 years old then. 5 were every day more dreadful. We may imagine how rapidly the fame of Vizier Mahomed,, who at once became a distinguished actor in these scenes, increased, when we are told, in eight months after he reached Bhopal bte was a popular candidate -for the office of Dewan. The Nuwab is said to have deter- mined on his elevation ; but it was opposed by his son, Ghous Mahomed, and the mother of that prince, who represented the danger of giving such a station to a person whose mind was still warm with the wrongs of his family, and who had a father's death to revenge. It is to be regretted that Vizier Mahomed was not made Dewan, after he had proved himself so worthy of that station ; for the JDewan who was appointed, was connected with Sultan Mahomed Khan's family, which had, when Byjeeram was Minister, been precluded from any interference with the management of the Bhopal territory. It was acknowledged, however, that a Put- han of high rank was necessary to the con- duct of affairs, and the choice, unfortunately, fell on Mooreed Mahomed Khan, the descend- ant of Sultan Mahomed Khan, (22) an here- ditary lord of Rathgurh. This chief refused to accept the office till the Mahrattah auxili- aries were dismissed. A large sum of money (22) Who was youngest son of Dost Mahomed Khan (the founder of Bhopal), and younger brother of Yar Mahomed Khan. E 26 was given them in consequence of their agree- ing to depart; and the new Dewan came, accompanied by a thousand adherents, to take charge of the Government. Mooreed Maho- med Khan, presented in his appearance and character a very remarkable contrast to Vizitfr Mahomed. He had more the look and man- ners of a Hindoo merchant, than an Affghan chief. On the first day of his arrival he en- camped at the garden of his grand-father, Sultan Mahomed Khan, where the day was passed in a display of tender feelings. He wept aloud at the recollections of the misfor- tunes of his family, which this spot brought to his mind, and embraced the trees which had been plante$ by his dear ancestors. (S3) Next day, when he was introduced to the old Nuwab, he addressed him in the most humble and ful- some language, calling him his more than father ; he lavished at the same time the most exaggerated praise on Ghous Mahomed. The Beebee, at whose court he next attended, was termed his aunt, and the person towards whom he looked for advancement. A still more extraordinary part was acted when the chief bankers and merchants of the city waited upon him. He refused their usual offer- ings of money, and made them presents of clothes, and honored some of the principal (23) Persian Manuscript. 27 with the titles of relations (24) Ail the citizens he met were conciliated by the most soothing language ; and, to gratify the poorer classes, he directed considerable sums of money to be distributed in charity. Many of the inhabi- tants of Bhopal were delighted by a demeanor to which they had been so little accustomed ; but the haughty and turbulent Affghan lords of that city could hardly repress their indigna- tion at a conduct which they considered dero- gatory and disgraceful. Some, better acquaint- ed with the individual by whom these acts were practised, waited anxiously till the veil should be withdrawn, and his real character developed. They were not long in suspense ; for in less than a month the vindictive and avaricious spirit which Mooreed Mahomed lhan evinced, in the oppression of the aged widow of Rajah Byjeeram, opened the eyes of all. His conduct on this occasion was the more despicable, from the distressed condition the poor woman had been before reduced to. His next attack was on the late Dewan, Rajah Himmut Row, whom with his nephew, Khealee Ram, (25) (24) Dherm Chund and Kool Chund were both styled cousins by this cajoling minister. The whole pioceedmgs of this period are taken from authentic manuscripts, and from the statements of actors in the scenes described (25) Sir John Malcolm says, "this person has been m my service for the last two years (1830-1831) He is a man of very clear intellect and has a complete knowledge of the affairs of Bhopal at this period." E 2 28 the manager of Bersiah, he confined for six weeks, till they paid a fine of 10,000 rupees. The supplies extorted from such sources of petty oppression were insufficient either to satisfy the Dewan's avarice, or the wants of the state, which latter every day became more pressing, from the general confusion that pre- vailed throughout the whole of Central Intlia. The Bhopal possessions, in common with others, were now overrun by freebooters and robbers of every description, and the troops it was necessary to maintain for their defence, were clamorous for their pay. To relieve these wants, Mooreed Mahomed Khan, imposed a tax on each house in Bhopal, which was levied ac- cording to the real, or supposed, wealth of the inhabitants ;^and those whom he had a short time before conciliated by the most endearing epithets, were now treated with marked seve- rity. Grown bold with success, the Devvan demanded money from the Beebee, and, irri- tated by her refusal, he determined on her destruction. (26) This lady though not mar- ried to Hiyat Mahomed Khan, had enjoyed, as his favorite mistress, all the rank and power of the first princesses. She paid little atten- (26) Mooreed Mahomed Khan had persuaded the Nuwab and Ghous Mahomed to forbid any person attending durbar with their arms* This order induced Vizier Mahomed and other Pat- hans to retire from court, such an unusual order was a warning to alii 29 tion to the Nuwab, who was absorbed in re- ligious contemplation ; which disqualified him for the management of the affairs of the prin- cipality. Mooreed Mahomed, after exciting the pre- judices of the Puthans against her, took the opportunity of a visit of ceremony to have her assassinated. Two of her principal officers were killed in her defence; and though she fled from the court where she was seated to the inner apartments, the partisans of Mooreed Mohamed followed and dispatched her. The secret motives of the minister's conduct were soon revealed, by the plunder of all the pro- perty this lady had amassed ; a great part of which he is believed to have conveyed to Rath- gurh, and other places, where, amid the rapid revolutions that ensued, it became lost to him and to the state. The next person whom Mooreed Maho- med Khan, marked for destruction, was Vizier Mahomed, whose reputation excited both his jealousy and alarm; but all his attempts against this young chief were unsuccessful. They added to the fame of the man whom he hated and dreaded. Vizier Mahomed, when sent with inadequate means to oppose the Pindarries, supplied, by his personal valor and judgment, the want of numbers, and obtained the admiration even of his enemies. Vizier Mahomed, when in the service of Huttee Singh, so of Omutwarra, had, on a plundering expedi- tion, the tail of his horse cut off completely. But, he knew his value too well to reject him on that account, and the fame of the horse, well known by this mark, and that of his rider, were associated It is asserted that the cry of " Banda ghora ka Suwar/' or the cavalier with the cut-tail horse, was certain to put the Pin- darries to flight, whatever were their numbers. Vizier Mahomed's penetration soon developed the artifices of the Dewan, and he was caution- ed not to trust himself in his power. A plan was laid by Mooreed Mahomed to cut him off near Cheynpoor Barree ; but the letter which contained the instructions was intercepted and the Governoj- (Raheem Khan) of that place, to whom it was addressed, was defeated, and fled wounded, with the loss of guns and baggage, into his fort, which next day surrendered to Vizier Mahomed. The news of this was re- ceived by the timid Dewan as the prelude to his downfall, and regardless of every thing but personal safety and worldly consideration ; he summoned to his aid a large body of Mah- rattahs under Balaram Iriglia (one of Dowlut Rao Sindiah's predatory leaders, who was then subsisting his force by pillage), and the stand- ard of Sindiah was, on the arrival of this force, displayed over the ramparts of Futtygurh, and the citadel of Bhopal. The next concession the minister desired to make to his new allies, 31 was the fort of Islamnuggur ; but \vhat his fears had granted, was saved by the spirit of an Affghan widow lady, named Motee Beebee (27), who, when the Mahrattahs were advanc- ing, ordered the gates to be shut, and the guns tft be opened, saying she knew not by what authority Mooreed Mahomed Khan, disposed of the Bhopal fortresses, and that she would not permit any strangers to intrude where she dwelt. The noble resolution of this high- minded female, appears to have been well sup- ported by the troops of the garrison ; and the Mahrattahs were forced to retire. Vizier Mahomed, who had been employed in establishing his authority over the country round Cheynpoor Banree, moved, the moment he heard of this occurrence, upon Bhopal. This led the Dewan and his Mahrattah ally to march out of Futtygurh to a plain four miles distant, where they were re-inforced by some infantry and guns, and a body of troops under Bappoo Sindiah. The fort on this occasion was left to the care of the since celebrated Ameer Khan, to whom the custody of Ghous Mahomed was also assigned. Vizier Mahomed had several sharp skir- mishes with the Mahrattahs, in which his courage and talent gained him the advantage ; but the numbers of his enemies would, perhaps, have ultimately prevailed, if the troubles (27) Aunt to Vizier Mahomed. 32 which commenced in Sindiah's own posses- sions had not made him direct his leaders to withdraw from all interference with the affairs of Bhopal (28). These orders were immedi- ately obeyed ; but Balaram carried with him the Dewan, Mooreed Mahomed Khan, as far as Seronj. He now accused that chief of being the author of all his disappointments, and of being concerned in the resistance which had been made to his occupation of the fort of Islamnuggur. The other, in vain, denied the charge, and stated how irreconcilable such conduct was with his own interests ; his noto- rious reputation as a deceiver, was brought forward by the Mahrattah leader in answer to all he could urge in his defence. He was threatened with torture, unless he immediately gave up the treasures he was known to pos- sess, and his fears and confinement brought on a violent illness ; but even this was treated as a trick, and when he died, Balaram refused for two days to allow his body to be buried, declaring his conviction that he had counter- feited death to effect his escape ; nor was it till putrefaction had commenced, that the Mahrattah chief would resign his prey, and believe that for once, Mooreed Mahomed Khan did not practise deceit! The name of this man is doomed to execration by his tribe, (28) The contest between Smdiah and the widqws of his uncle and predecessor, commenced at this period. S3 and to this day, when a Puthan of Bhopal visits Seronj to pay his devotion at a shrine sacred to Murtiza Ali (29), it is deemed an essential part of the pilgrimage, to bestow five blows with a slipper on the tomb of Mooreed ^4ahomed Khan ; to mark at once the con- tempt and indignation which his memory excttes. It is obvious that there was a funda- mental objection to the appointment of Moo- reed Mahomed to be the Vizier, as his family had been, by agreement, excluded from a y interference in the management of the Bhop ' territory; whereas he was allowed to hold th but this revenue, from the distracted state of Malwa, and the incessant incursions of the Mahrattahs and Pindarries, was at the present period, not above 50,000 rupees (31), out of which an army was to be maintained, that could not be reduced below 4,000 men without endangering even the no- minal sovereignty of a country, which it was always hoped might yet enjoy peace and pros- perity. Under such circumstances, Vizier Ma- homed cannot be censured for having, to pre- serve the existence of the state he governed, had recourse to the same irregular practices, to which all others, from Dowlut Rao Sindiah (31) Sir John Malcolm gives this sum. It could only be meant of the town of Bhopal. 35 down to the pettiest chief in central India, then resorted ; or in other words, to endeavour, to make his army support itself. This system of indiscriminate violence, which appears on the first view to confound all rights and pro- perty, and to attain its ends by any expedient, was, nevertheless, not without its distinctions ; certain principles being recognized, and, ge- nerally speaking, well observed by all parties. The Bheels and other tribes of petty robbers, plundered wherever they could. The chiefs of the Pindarries often contracted obligations with the principal sovereigns of the country, which limited their depredations ; and though these freebooters had never established any character for good faith or honor, they had a knowledge of their own interests which consti- tuted some check on their proceedings. The Grassiah, or Rajpoot chiefs, who, deprived of their lands by the Mahrattahs still claimed a share of their revenues, on the ground of their ability to injure them, were satisfied with a fixed or known Tunkhwah, or tribute from certain territories, on which they had a real or pretended claim; and their irruptions were directed to enforce this payment The latter class of freebooters were always natives of the soil, and generally the friends, often the relations, of the zemindars, or landholders. Their war was with the government, not with the inhabitants. The next and highest descrip- 36 tion of plunderers were the existing govern- ments. The armies and detachments of Dow- lut Rao Sindiah, Holkar, and other Mahrattahs, wherever they marched,, levied as heavy a contribution (32) as could be extorted from the managing officers of the province or towti they entered or attacked. At this period the greatest part of the revenues of central India was collected in the manner described. The Cumpoos, or brigades, of Sindiah and of Hol- kar, traversed that unfortunate country, mak- ing little distinction to whom the place be- longed, from which they desired to obtain money. The leaders of these corps had al- ways the ready excuse, if they desired it, of a mutiny among their troops for arrears of pay ; and the prince whose name they usurped, avowed or disapproved their actions, as it suited his temporary interests. 1803. Vizier Mahomed, not satisfied with the reconquest of the districts which had been taken from Bhopal, levied contribu- tions on other states. He displayed equal gallantry and judgment in the various in- cursions he made into the neighbouring principalities, which he compelled to fur- nish a portion of revenue to supply his (32) The districts of Raiseen, Ashta, Sehore, Duraha, and Itchawar, were reconquered, and contributions were levied from Shujahalpoor, Bersiah, Bhilsa, on the north side of the Nerbud- dah, and from Seonee, and other districts south of that nver. 37 exhausted resources. But of all his exploits, there is none during this period of his life which reflects more credit on his character as a soldier, than the recapture of Hoshungabad, which he, in concert with the Pindarries, came ityon suddenly, and with such determined resolution, that he actually terrified its gover- nor'into a surrender (33). After this exploit, Vizier Mahomed carried on for several years a petty warfare, marked by vicissitudes, with the Mahrattah chiefs, who now considered him as a declared enemy. He, in consequence, endeavoured to strengthen himself by a con- nexion with the Pindarries. His first ally among the freebooters was Kurreem Khan, to whom he gave two villages in Bersiah. Chee- too, another Pindarry chief, entered also into (33) This event occurred m 1803. About a year after the reduc- tion of Raiseen, Hoshungabad had capitulated to the Nagpoor Rajah m 1799, and remained with him till thus recaptured The Marquess of Wellesley, Despatches, A D. 1837, vol. 4, p. 407, 24th. March, 1850, to the Secret Committee writes, fe About ten years ago the Rajah of Berar obtained possession of that fort by the treachery of the persons to whose charge it was committed 9 but shortly before the conclusion of peace between the British Govern- ment and the Rajah of Berar, the Nuwab of Bhopal, taking advan- tage of the adverse condition of the Rajah of Berar's affairs, recover- ed the fort and territory of Hoshungabad, and has since retained possession against the efforts of a considerable force of the Rajah of Berar. 57 Peace was concluded with the Berar Rajah on the 17th of December, 1803, and withSmdiah on the 30th December, 1803, after the battle of Argaum. Despatches, vol. 3, Appendix B and C. pp 633, 634. The Marquess would make the capture by the Berar Rajah about the year 1795. Malcolm, p. 386, gives the year 1798. 38 a compact of friendship with the prince of Bhopal. He was promised a place of refuge for his family in one of the fortresses, and received a grant of the village of Chippaneer on the Nerbuddah. This Pindarry leader, in return, aided the state of Bhopal against tlfe Rajah ofNagpoor. The relations between the state of Bhopal and the government of Sindiah had latterly undergone a considerable change, of which it is here necessary to take a retrospect. Mad- hojee Sindiah had been throughout his life, looked upon as the friendly protector of the Affghan principality; and though an actual supremacy was either asserted or admitted, still, there was, from tha policy of both parties, an implied connexion. This led to considera- ble importance being attached to the Khillut, or ordinary dresses, which Dowlut Rao Sindiah sent to the Nuwab, and to Vizier Mahomed Khan ; but, the latter, nevertheless, kept aloof when Sindiah required him to accompany his army, then on its march to attack Juswunt Rao Holkar. The consequence of this cau- tion was, that when the Pindarry leaders, Kurreem Khan, Dost Mahomed, and Cheetoo, were loaded with favors and created Nuwabs for the Mahrattah ruler now conferred this Mahomedan title (34), in consideration of the (34) " The bestowing this title had no form, but the chiefs, Sindiah or Holkar, addressing the favored person in writing, or 39 aid *they had given, the brother of Vizier Mahomed, whom he sent to congratulate that prince on his success, was received with such marked coolness, as left little doubt of the measures in contemplation. * 1804?. It has been before stated (1802) that Ameer Khan had entered into the service of Bh<5pal, but being found a very intriguing character, was discharged at the end of six months. It appears from the depositions of some of the prisoners taken at Mahoba in Bundelkund,by the force under Lieut-Colonel Martindell, on the 2nd of July, 1804, that Meer Khan was at that period of time ff en- gaged in hostile operations against the Nuwab of Bhopal ;" (35) on .the 29th of December, 1804, the acting Resident at Dowlut Rao Sin- diah's court wrote as follows to the Marquess of Wellesley (36) " the preparations for ac- tive measures, which are still in train in this army, notwithstanding the assurances I have received of the intention of Dowlut Rao Sin- diah to proceed to his capital (37), appear to me verbally, as Nuwab ; on which the Chobdars or Durbar officers, proclaimed the new title, and the party ever after assumed it, was addressed by it in letters, and had it engraved on his seaL Smdiah had no title to make Nuwabs. The right existed in the Emperor of Delhi. After the last Mahrattah War (1817-18) the British Government made Ameer Khan, a Nuwab. (35) The Marquess of Wellesley*s Despatches, vol. 5, p. 143, Supplement Mahrattah War, Letter of the Governer General in Council, No. 2, dated 24th March 1805, to the Secret Committee. (36) Ditto, p. 132. (37)0ujeen. 40 to manifest an unequivocal spirit of hostility. My demand for the dismissal of Ghautka (38) has not been complied with, while the army ol Dowlut Rao Sindiah is daily recruited with fresh levies, and the situation of the armies of Baptiste at Bhopal, of Meer Khan at Bhilsa, and of other chiefs in Malwa, combined with the notoriety of the inimical counsels still in agitation at this court, indicate, in my judg- ment, a decided intention on the part of Sin- diah to commence hostilities at an early period ; I have, therefore, signified my resolu- tion of quitting camp should arrangements not be immediately adopted to convince me of a contrary spirit, and I shall deem it to be my duty to carry my design into execution (39), unless the Conduct to be instantly pursued by Sindiah, shall be perfectly satisfactory to my mind." 1805. This year Sindiah and the Berar Rajah, after the Mahrattah war had been ter- minated, were desirous of attacking the Bho- pal state. Sir John Malcolm, as before observ- (38) Father-m-law to Smdiab. Ghautka was the chief adviser of all these hostile movements. (39) The conduct of Sindiah was very improper on this occa- sion. He would not permit Mr. (now Sir R ) Jenkins to quit his camp. It is usual for residents, as well as for ambassadors, at Native or European courts, to quit them when war is deter- mined on, or amicable relations have ceased The detention was, alone, a national insult, and a valid ground for a declaration of 41 ed, states that there was " an implied connex- ion" between Sindiah and the Nuwab of Bhopal. Major General the Hon'ble Sir Arthur Wellesley, in a letter to Colonel Barry Close, dated 4th March, 1805, (40) writes, There can be no doubt that the conduct of Sindiah throughout has been very improper, but not, in my 'opinion, in making an attack upon Bhopal or Saugur. There is no doubt but that he had a claim upon the Nuwab of Bhopal, and it is more than probable that he had one upon Saugur, which, as you observe, holds but very slightly on the Peshwah : but his misbehavi- our has been, in my opinion, principally to- wards Mr. Jenkins." (41). The Marquess of Wellesley and council, jin their letter, dated 24th March, 1805, to the Secret Committee of the Hon'ble Court of Directors, write (42) ec that the resident, Mr. Jenkins, told Sindiah that an attack upon the independent territory of Bho- pal was contrary to the provisions of the sub- sidiary treaty/' and that " the Nuwab of Bhopal had maintained the relations of amity and peace both with Dowlut Rao Sindiah and the British Government/' that Dowlat Rao Sin- diah began by justifying his conduct towards the Nuwab of Bhopal, by asserting that the Nuwab of Bhopal was a tributary to his Govern- (40) The Duke of Wellington's Despatches, vol. 2, p. 596, (41) The detention of Mr Jenkins. (42) Despatches, vol. 4, p. 419. G 42 rnent." Dowlut Rao, also told the Resident that " the design of His Highness was, by levying contributions from the Nuwab of that territory, to place his army in a condition to act with effect against the enemy/' (43) The Resident in his remarks upon Sindiah's con- duct writes, " The Nuwab of Bhopal is not a tributary state to Sindiah, so considered^ al- though it is true that he has been subjected to such exactions as the superior force of Sindiah has occasionally rendered it convenient for him to enforce; but, the true object of Sindiah's march to this place was founded on a plan concerted between him and the Rajah of Nagpoor, for the purpose of assisting Ragho- jee Bhonslah (44), in .wresting the fort and territory of Hoshungabad from the Nuwab of Bhopal. This plan has long been mentioned as an object of notoriety, but I did not con- sider myself at liberty to make a formal re- presentation on the subject, either to the Dur- bar or to your Excellency; but I have this morning been furnished with such proofs as leave no doubt of the fact in my mind, arid I am accordingly informed, that the troops of Nagpoor, stationed at the distance of about 30 coss from Hoshungabad, have been ordered to resume their march towards that place, since (43) Holkar and Meer Khan are here supposed to be meant, by Sindiah but the British Government was evidently intended. (44) Rajah of Berar. 43 the invasion of theBhopal territories by Dowlut Rao Sindiah." The Resident adds " this violation of his engagements (45), by Dowlut Rao Sindiah, appears to me to be the more aggravated at the present crisis, as its obvious censequerice is to detach from the objects of the war against Holkar, whatever power the MaRarajah may be supposed to command, as well as to augment the number of our enemies ; by precipitating the Nuwab of Bhopai into an intimate alliance with Meer Khan." The Marquess of Wellesley further writes to the Secret Committee, (46) " the Minister (47) then proceeded to state that Hylut Rao had brought a letter from Meer Khan, pur- porting that he (Meer .Khan) was prepared to oppose any attempt on the part of the Rajah of Berar to molest the territory of the Nuwab of Bhopai. The Minister added that the Rajah had nevertheless determined to prosecute the expedition against Hoshungabad, and that Saccaram Bukshee, the Rajah's principal mi- litary officer, had taken the field with that intention/' It is obvious that there never was any soli- citation on the part of the Nuwab of Bhopai (45) Which Mr Jenkins considered as a breach of the Sth article of the treaty of defensive alliance, u by negotiating with the Rajah of Nagpoor, without giving previous notice and mutual consultation with, the British Government," (46) Page 434 (47) Of the Rajah of Berar, speaking to the Resident G 2 44 to be placed under the protection of Sindiah ; what Sir J. Malcolm means by an ce implied con- nexion," it is difficult to understand, as he, at the same time, states (48) that cc no actual supremacy was either asserted or admitted. It is true, though, that, in the year 1798, (49) Him- mut Rao, the Minister of Bhopal, to avert the dangers which threatened Bhopal, amidst the confusion which at this time prevailed in Central India, invited Luckma Dada, one of Sindiah's independent leaders ; who was called upon as an auxiliary, and promised high pay and reward if he would recover the fort of Hoshungabad, which had been taken by the Rajah of Berar This was no application made to Sindiah, but to one of his " indepen- dent leaders/' The Marquess of Wellesley writes, (50) " The possession of the fort of Hoshungabad with its dependent territory, which belongs to the Nuwab of Bhopal, has uniformly been an object of the Rajah of Berar's desire, and his endeavours to obtain and secure that possession, have occasioned repeated contests between those chieftains/' Vizier Mahomed had recovered the fort, and it is clear that he would not have applied direct to Sindiah, whose connexion with the Rajah of Berar must have been suspected. Hence the minister applied to an independent (48) Page 387. (49) Page 3?3. (50) Despatches, vol. 4, p. 40f. 45 chief: arid it is difficult to imagine, how any such act could render an independent, a depen- dent state ! Major General Wellesley no doubt wrote under the belief that Sindiah had a claim on Bhopal, but he states no reason. He writes, " There is no doubt but that he (Sindiah) had a claim upon the Nuwab of Bhopal." Sindiah, too, only made the assertion. There was no proof of any tribute paid, or ever promised. Sindiah, as the stronger power, could send a force and extort money. The Berar Rajah might have done the same: so that Bhopal might have been liable to pay a forced tribute to both ! The fact is, that the relations between Sindiah and the other Mah- rattahs with the state? in Central India, were then little known. The Marquess of Wellesley states that the Nuwab of Bhopal?, fearing the hostility of Sin- diah, and of the Rajah of Berar, was desirous of placing himself under the protection of the British Government. He writes in the above quoted letter that " An Agent (51) from the Nuwab of Bhopal arrived in the camp of Dow- lut Rao Sindiah, with letters from the Nuwab, addressed to the Hon'bie Major Genl. Welles- ley, and to the British Resident of Dowlut Rao Sindiah's court* The object of this mission appeared to be founded on a report, that in consideration of a sum of money, Dow- (51) Enayet Musseah 46 lut Rao Sindiah was disposed to grant military aid to the Rajah of Berar, for the recovery of the fort and territory of Hoshungabad ; and under an apprehension that Dowlut Rao Sin- diah might he aided in the prosecution of that measure by the British troops, the Nuwab of Bhopal signified to the Resident, through the channel of his agent, his desire of pladng himself under the protection of the British Government, on the foundation of the engage- ment formerly concluded by him (52) with Brigr. Genl. Goddard (53). To this overture the Resident replied in terms of civility, by explaining those principles of British policy which preclude the interposition of our power to aid the purposes of conquest or to influ- ence the result of any contest between states with which the British Government is connect- ed by the ties of amity " The Marquess also writes (54) " It was obvious at the same time, that the march of Sindiah with his army to Hoshungabad, was favourable to the renewal of a confederacy between the Rajah of Berar and Dowlut Rao Sindiah, especially under the actual existence of circumstances which had a tendency to that effect/' And (55) " on the (52) Hiyat Mahomed Khan was the Nuwab. (53) It is a pity that the proceedings of the force under the General should have been kept at Bombay Sir J Malcolm does not mention any " engagement," but it is highly probable that future protection was solicited, and considered as promised. (54) Vol. 4, p. 414. (55) Page 419. 47 Resident's arrival in camp, Dowlut Rao Sindi- ah's army was in motion to invade the territory of Bhopal. The Resident followed Dowlut Rao Sindiah to Seonee, a small fortified village within the territory of Bhopal, which his troops \fere employed in attacking under the conduct ofSerjeRao Gautka (56). The Resident re- marked to Sindiah "That this procedure constituted a violation of the principles of the defensive alliance, which were directly adverse to aggressive war and conquest. That an attack, therefore, upon the independent terri- tory of Bhopal was contrary to the provisions of the subsidiary treaty." It was obvious, that the intention was to make a joint attack on Bhopal, ajid that hav- ing reduced it, the Berar Rajah and Dowlut Rao Sindiah, would have been strengthened by the event ; after which, Hoikar and Meer Khan (57) would have joined the confederacy, in an attack upon the British. It was, there- fore, desirable to prevent Sindiah joining the Berar Rajah ; and, thus, the general policy of the British Government insured, indirectly, The Government in England was not fully acquainted with the state of affairs in Central India, and appear to have supposed that the Pmdarnes might be easily put down without any ulterior measures. They were unaware of the fact, that the Pmdames were auxiliaries to Sindiah, the Berar Rajah, Holkar, and Ameer Khan, &c , that these powers would, willingly, allow them to go forth and plunder our provinces (as they had done Ganjam m 1812), unsettle the coun- try, and then, declare they had no control over these plunderers 1 (127) Page 125. (128) Commenced in October, 1817. But Lord Hastings had ample proof in 1816, that he was not alone to prepare to act 107 engagement with the state of Bhopal, conclud- ed at Hussingabad (129), which guaranteed that territory to its actual ruler, and stipulated for his aiding the British army with a contin- gentj and co-operating to the utmost of his means in the ensuing War/ 3 The Nuwab was to " furnish a contingent of 600 horse and 400 infantry for the service of the British Government when required, and when neces- sary the whole disposable forces were to join the British army." (130) No obligations were ever more faithfully fulfilled. Nuzzur Maho- med received, as the reward of his zeal and efforts, the fine province named Punj-Mahal, against the Pindarnes, but to contend against the high native Powers. Pnnsep says, p. 225, note (*) ; " A fuU size impression of Smdheea's seal happened to drop from the tuiban of one of his emissaries, while in the act of crossing the Ganges at Bithoor. On searching these letters, written with the design of stirring up the GoorJchas to make common cause with the rest of the indepen- dent powers of India, were found neatly pasted between the leaves of a Sanscnt book of the Vedas, which one of them, travelling as a student, was carrying with him Several sealed and some open letters from the chief himself were found upon them, the former were sent by his lordship to be presented to his highness in full Durbar, unopened and without comment ; in order that he might not suppose us to be ignorant of the intrigues and machinations a foot/' Sindiah was given to understand that the Marquess was acquainted with the contents of the letter to the Rajah of Nipal. (129) He states that it was negotiated by himself in concert with Lieut.-Colonel (the late Major General Sir John, G. C. B) Adams, C B. commanding the force there. The Bengal and Agra Gazetteer says the treaty was concluded on the 26th February, 1818. It was the 26th of January, 1818. (130) Gazetteer. p 2 108 or the five districts;(131) which were taken from a Jahgeerdar (the Vinshore chief) of the Pesh- wah, and which not only joined the territories of Bhopal, but had formerly been an integral portion of that principality (131). The restora- tion of the fort of Islarnnuggurj subsequently obtained from Sindiah, though of little value, was esteemed beyond all other favors by the ruling family of Bhopal. It contained the tomb of the Nuwab Yar Mahomed, the son and immediate successor of Dost Mahomed Khan, the founder of the principality ; who made it his capital 100 years before the period now referred to ; its position, almost at the gates of the capital, had made its separation from the state a source of the greatest annoyance. 1818 The Marquess of Hastings, (132) than whom no Governor General knew better how to appreciate the value of the services of the true allies of the British Government,, has thus recorded his sentiments. " It was highly gra- tifying to me, that in this mode (133) I was enabled to bestow on the Nuwab of Bhopal, a splendid reward for the liberality with which he sold all his jewels to maintain troops in aid of our exertions. The fortress and territory of Islamnuggur had been the original posses- (131) Is said to contain 867 villages Malcolm says, the dis- tricts were, Raiseen, Ashta, Sehore, Duraha, and Itchamur. (132) Summary of Ins administration p 54 A D. 1824 (133) Territonal arrangements after the Mahrattah War of 1817-18. 109 sion of his family. In the life time of his father, Sindiah's predecessor had obtained it, through the treachery of the officer to whom it was entrusted ; (134) and the strength of the fortress rendered hopeless any endeavour to regain it by siege. This possession, widely separated from the territories of Gwalior, we acquired from Sindiah, by giving him, in ex- change, districts greatly superior in value, as well as adjoining his own dominions ; and then we conferred it on the Nuwab of Bhopal, as a free gift to recompense his gallant manifesta- tion of gratitude for the protection his coun- try had received in the crisis of the Nepaul War. The Honourable Company will, no doubt, approve the policy of such an exhibited proof, that attachment to their Government was an advantageous course. (135) It must, (134) The Marquess is in error, he must mean HoshungabacL Islamnuggur was suirendered to Smdiah m 1806, (135) The Maiquess had previously lecorded his opinion of the conduct of the Nuwab of Bhopal " in order to bring the subject" (of the treaty) " to the special notice of the authorities m England." " Nuzurgurh," Prinsep says, (p. 219,) " was named as the fort to be required of him for a Dep6t Colonel Adams was to advance through the Bhopal territories. Sir T. Hislop and Sir J. Malcolm were to settle the details of the treaty , they were soon expected to arrive on the Nerbudda The Marquess declared to the Council of Fort William, his reasons for deviating from the more limited views that seemed to be entertained m England, and expressed a confident hope, that the enlarged plan he had laid down, for the secure and permanent attainment of his object, would meet with the assent of the most considerable princes of Central India. It was his boast," he said, " to have an earnest desire to accom- 110 here, be remarked, that Nuzzur Mahomed sold jewels to aid the cause of peace, to the value of fifty-one (51) or more lakhs of Rupees; upon the sale of which he lost twelve (12) lakhs of Rupees ! we may search the history of British India, in vain, to find any similar liberality on the part of any other native state. From the conduct of the reigning Nuwab towards General Goddard in 1778, this subsequent exhibition of generosity towards the British Government, C( towards which" the agent had declared in 1809, "no extreme of distress could ever make them place them- selves in the relation of enemies/' was nobly supporting the character of the state, which it has ever since maintained. Prinsep says, (136) "next to Holkar, the most considerable military chief, under the phsh everything by pacific means, and to be able to declare, with sincerity, that the exclusive object of his present preparations was to get nd of the greatest pest that society ever experienced (the Pindarries). He did not hesitate to take upon himself the indivi- dual responsibility of acting without the full sanction of the Home Authorities , for he felt confident the result would justify his deter- mination in the eyes of those authorities, and of the British nation at large." Prinsep says, p. 427 " The Nuwab signed a preliminary engagement in November, 1817, before the British troops crossed the Nerbudda" Pnnsep, p. 125, note (*). It is stated m the Bengal and Agra Gazetteer, 1842, vol. 2, part 2, p 367, that his Lordship obtained for Nuwab Asud Ulee Khan, the maternal uncle of the Nuwab of Bhopal, whose minister he was in 1842* the Jagheir of Basoda, which had been siezed by Smdiah, who restored it at the request of the Marquess. He pays no tribute to Smdiah, and wishes to be regarded as a dependant of the British Government. (136) Page 427- Ill late settlement, is the Nuwab of Bhopal." *** As a reward for the cordiality displayed by the Nuwab, the Punj-Muhal, along with some other lands, a part of the Vinshore Kur's forti- fied Jahgeer, were annexed to Bhopal, whose boundary was by this addition advanced west- ward as far as the Kalee Sindh. A part of Shujawulpoor was subsequently added, and Islamnuggur was obtained from Sindhiah by treaty. The principality was thus placed on a most respectable footing. The definitive engagement which permanently fixed the rela- tions of the Nuwab, was concluded at Bhopal on the 26th of January, 1818, and ratified by the Governor General on the 8th of March following. The contingent he stipulates to furnish is limited to 600 horse and 400 foot ; a low proportion in reference to the resources of the state ; but so fixed, expressly to favor the Nuwab. As a more substantial mark of con- sideration, the obligation of paying tribute, in return for the protection we have engaged to afford, is waved in this instance; notwith- standing that the eventual payment of 125,000 Rupees on this account, was an item of the preliminary agreement, concluded with Lieut.- Colonel Adams and Sir J. Malcolm in Novem- ber, 1817. Besides, the entire occupation of the Sagur territory, has rendered it expedient to station the military force, required to awe this neighbourhood, within the frontiers of 112 that province ; by which arrangement Nuzzur Mahomed is relieved from the obligation of furnishing a cantonment,, and surrendering a fort to be converted into a depot for a station- ary British force within his territory, which had also been a part of his original contract. In closing the war as regards the Pindarries, Prinsep says, (137) " such was the extremity of their distress, that Colonel Adams, judging them to be now ripe for unqualified submis- sion, caused an intimation to be conveyed to them through the Nuwab of Bhopal, that, if they were willing to throw themselves entirely on the rnercy of the British Government, sur- rendering their arms and horses, the Sirdars might expect a livelihood in some part of our provinces remote from their old haunts, and the lives of their followers would be spared, NamdarKhan (138) was the first to avail him- self of this information. He delivered himself up to Colonel Adams on the 3rd of February at Deorajpoor in the Bhopal territory, with all his yet remaining followers, which were no more than 87. He required no other terms than a bare assurance that he should not be sent to Europe, or to Calcutta. * * * The rest, for the most part, followed the example of Namdar Khan. * * * Thus were the two Dur- (137) Page 307. (138) Namdar Khan, it will be recollected, assisted, in 1813, to defend Bhopal. 113 ralis of Kurreem Khan (139) and Wasil Ma- homed, annihilated. Some were located at Gorukpoor, Ghazeepoor, &c. &c. With regard to Cheetoo, he had wandered about Malwa a short time with about 200 followers ; and see- ing his affairs to be nearly desperate, endea- voured, through the Nuwab of Bhopal, to make terms for himself, in conjunction with his remaining adherents. For this purpose, he suddenly entered the Nuwab's camp ; but when he learned that Nuzzur Mahomed had nothing to offer, beyond a slender personal maintenance in some distant part of Hindostan, while he demanded a Jahgeer in Malwa, and the entertainment of himself and his men in the British service ; he decamped as suddenly as he had come ; while he staid, his horses were constantly saddled, and the men slept with the bridles in their hands, ready to fly, instant- ly, in case of an attempt to seize them. Pre- parations were making for the purpose the very night he went , off ; but he was too much on his guard, and too much alive to suspicion, to allow them to be completed. He was instantly pursued by the Nuwab's people, and General Malcolm also sent out parties, to take him, which distressed him so much, that Rajun left him, and made his submission. Mahomed Punah, his son, was likewise made prisoner. Cheetoo found his way to Kandesh and the (139) Nephew of Namdor Khdn Q 114 Dukhun* and joined the Arabs and chiefs of the Peshwah's routed army, occasionally protected by the Killadar of Aseergurh. The fate of Cheetoo is well known, he was found dead in the Mahadeo hills, having been killed by a Tiger. Thus, the obstinacy of this Pindarah sealed his fate. The object of locating these people in our own provinces was to induce them to return to the habits of civil life. The Bheels, a far more wild tribe, who inhabited the hills in Malwa, &c., were offered by Captain (late Lieutenant Colonel) Tod, the Political Agent at Oodeepoor, at the court of the Rana, (the most ancient of the Rhatore Rajpoots) (140) three rupees a month each,if they would culti- vate their lands, but he found great difficulty, at first, in inducing these wild people to become civilized human beings ; but at length succeed- ed. (141) Thus, it will be perceived, that Nuz- zur Mahomed Khan was the means, in a great degree, of causing the Pindarries to come into terms ; that they came in through his means, (140) This Rana, the head of the Rhatore Rajpoots, is the only Prince who never yielded to the demand of the Emperor of Delhi, for a daughter m marriage, or to occupy a place m the Haram. (141) The Sheets said their fathers and ancestors had never tilled the ground, and why should they They were offeied three rupees a month if they would cultivate then lands In a few yeais they were reclaimed. Sir J Malcolm, m 1819, formed a Bheel corps at Mundleysir, and by making the principal chief responsible for his tnbe, keep down the plunderers, Those who travelled among their hills, had only to give a present to a chief, who, on giving an arrow to the traveller, insured protection on its production, which force would not have affected. 115 since he was the medium of communication : and while he had cause to be displeased with their desertion of his cause in 1814: he, for the general good, forgot their misconduct in his desire to aid the British Government 1818. Never were prospects more flatter- ing than those of Nuzzur Mahomed Khan, (142) when an unhappy accident terminated his life, and left his family and country to mourn the untimely and irreparable loss of a prince, who seemed born for the times in which he lived, and who promised to be as active and successful in restoring his country to pros- perity, as his father had been in saving it from destruction. His death was occasioned by the discharge of a pistol he carried about his person, which he laid down when playing in his inner apartment with his infant daugh- ter : (143) and it is supposed to have been fired by his brother-in-law Foujdar Khan, (144) a (142) Malcolm, p. 417. He says, p. 416. "The condition of the Bhopal principality at Vizier Mahomed^ death was bo low, that its actual revenue could not have amounted to one laKJi of rupees. It was now rising into importance Its rescued territo- ries included almost all the provinces its princes formerly possessed; and its revenues were improving." Sir John must mean the town of Bhopal, and not the principality The princi- pality had still Hoshungabad, Jubbulpoor, Nursmgpoor, Hmdia, or Baitool (143) The present reigning Begum of Bhopal called by the family " Secunder Begurn." (144) Son of Ghous Mahomed, consequently uncle to the pre- sent Begum, and brother of the Begum mother. Q 2 116 child of eight years of age, who was the only one present on this melancholy occasion. The sensation caused by his death was great, and men gave way to the worst suspicions : but all doubt was soon dispelled, and every suspicion vanished of Nuzzur Mahomed Khan's death being premeditated. It was purely accidental. The child always appeared very fond of the Nuwab. Nuzzur Mahomed was much attach- ed to the Begum, who was then only 17 years of age, and whom he treated with unusual consideration. He not only resisted all the entreaties that were used to induce him to contract a second marriage, (145) but strictly prohibited the introduction of any young fe- males, either as slaves, servants or otherwise, within the Mahal, or palace. The grief of the Begum since the accident was so great, as to produce her miscarriage. There was but one sentiment, that of the deepest regret, and no person sought to take advantage of the accident to promote his own interests. At a consulta- tion of the principal chiefs, it was resolved to continue to attend to the widow and ministers of the deceased prince,, till the pleasure of the (145) That is to marry a second wife Mahomedans are allowed, by the Koran, to have four wives ; but it is considered an honorable exception to the rule, to have only one wife It was a proof of affection in the Nuwab to have only one wife , no doubt, some evil disposed persons wished to introduce some other wife, to divide the Nuwab's affection j and this from political reasons most pro- bably. 117 British Government was known as to his successor ; (146) and it is remarkable, that not the slightest effort was made by any party to influence the judgment of the British agent ; a sufficient proof, of itself, of the absence of all design or guilt on this unhappy occasion. Nuzzur Mahomed Khan, when he died, was only 28 years of age ; he had governed Bhopal, Malcolm says, three years and five months; ( 147) "but he has left a name that has been attained by few during the longest life. Schooled in adversity, he early attained a remarkable ma- turity of judgment. His appearance was no- ble, and his manners those of a prince who Jtnew the value of possessing the hearts of his subjects His rnind was so superior, and his courage so elevated him above suspicion, that the whole family of the rulers of Bhopal -whom he had supplanted, as well as his elder "brother who had resigned his birthright to him, lived not only without restriction, but on the most intimate footing of familiarity with him, coming and going through every apart- ment of his palace at their pleasure. Nuzzur Mahomed held in just detestation the vices and indulgences to which some Mahomedans (146) Even when there is no doubt as to the succession, it is customary to await the orders of Government regarding the suc- cession. (147) He succeeded his father m February, 1816, and died ir lie rainy season (about July) of 1818, so that the period was onl> 5 vears and 5 months 118 are addicted. His Haram contained but one princess, and no slaves. He was a good Mahomedan, but so far removed from begotry, that his favorite companion and minister, was a Christian, by name Shahzad Musseah (148) or Belthazar Bourboun, with whom Sir John Malcolm was well acquainted. This person was an able man and a brave soldier, the descendant of a Frenchman, called Bourboun, who came to India in the time of the Emperor Akbar, in whose service he was. (149) Nuzzur Mahomed's whole soul was absorb- ed, during the two last years of his life, in plans for improving his country He investi- gated every account himself, heard every complaint ; and, while all speak of his kind- ness, benevolence and justice, his memory is unstained by the reproach of a single act of tyranny. Sir John Malcolm says : " I had, during two years, much communication with Nuzzur Mahomed, and personally knew him ; but I rely for the facts above stated, on Major Henley, the Political ^Agent at Bhopal, who enjoyed the fullest opportunities of observing and (148) He was the son of the agent before mentioned (149) His father Enayet Musseah (Shoohur Bourboun) was born at Gwahor He was the peison sent as Agent by theNuwab (Vizier JMabomed) in 1805, to the Resident in Smdiah's camp. He appears to have possessed a village neai Gwahor, which he lost after the Mahrattahs repossessed Gwahor, after its capture in I780 y by Major Popham, and to have gone to Bhopal about 60 years ago. 119 appreciating the character of this remarkable young prince " A greater loss could not have occurred to a community in the condition of Bhopal, than the death of Nuzzur Mahomed Khan ; and that event was also a serious mis- fortune to the British Government, to which this virtuous prince was firmly attached. He was eminently qualified to be the popular instrument which was required to restore order and prosperity. His mind was elevated far beyond the usual range of native Princes- He cultivated knowledge of every description with extraodinary ardour, and had made considerable progress in the arts foreign to the occupations of his life, and the habits of his station. As a proof, it is stated that Nuz- zur Mahomed was particularly fond of mechanics ; and could himself take to pieces and put together a watch, with the principles of the construction of which he was well acquainted. Sir John Malcolm thus concludes his estimate and eulogium of his character : ff The fame of Nuzzur Mahomed will be long commemo- rated as an object of emulation to his successors ; but we must despair of seeing his equal He was, as most other such characters have been, formed by the early scenes of his life : (150) no instructions could have conveyed the lessons (150) When his father began to rule, Nuzzur Mahomed was only 16 years of age, and during the period of warfare, which 120 he had learnt, when encouraged by the ex- ample, and rewarded by the love of a noble father, he struggled with him to preserve a country rendered dearer from the extreme misery to which it was reduced ; and his mind was too well formed before the hour of suc- cess arrived, ever to lose that tone which it had received arnid scenes of difficulty and danger/' This is the language of the late Sir John Malcolm, who, when he penned this eulo- gium had 50 years' experience of Indian affairs ; had been for 35 years a political officer of the Government ; who knew the history of every native state, and the character of every prince in India ; who was, himself, a distinguished officer, the Hero of Mahidpoor, in 1819 ; and who, lastly, held the high office of Governor of Bombay. Nuzzur Mahomed left no issue by his princess, the daughter of Ghous Mahomed, ex- cept one daughter, the present Begum of Bhopal. He had not assumed the title of Nuwab, probably with modest deference to Ghous Mahomed, though he was always ad- dressed as such by the British Government ; for Ghous Mahomed, who had long lived in retirement, was never in any way, brought forward in any connexion between Bhopai and the British Government. In the en- lasted for nine years, he must have had little time to devote to improvement 121 gagement which was entered into at shungabad, and in the treaty made after the war, by which the cession to this state, and the amount of the contingent to be main- tained,, were finally settled, Nuzzur Mahomed Khan and his descendants were alone mention- ed ; and to them the government of the country was guaranteed. The right of Ghous Maho- med was never agitated. He was titular Nuwab, but not ruler. Ameer Mahomed, the brother of the deceased, had publicly resigned his birthright, and declared his incompetency ; but this abdication of right was very properly, Sir John Malcolm observes, not considered to affect the claims of his children. Mooneer Mahomed Khan, was to have succeeded his uncle, Vizier Mahomed, to whose daughter he was to have been married, that the interests of the family might, as much as possible, have been united in his person. But this marriage never took place, and his younger brother, Jehangier Mahomed Khan, was subsequently married to Secunder, the reigning Begum of Bhopal. It is to be remarked that the obliga- tions and engagements of the British Govern- ment have been exclusively contracted with the family of Vizier Mahomed Khan, who alone, have been recognized as rulers of Bhopal. With regard to the right of succession, Sir J-ohn Malcolm observes that, "no reference 122 was made to Ghous Mahomed, or to his sons, who are living on the estate assigned for their support at Bhopal ; nor do they appear ever to have urged their pretensions. It is, how- ever, \\onhy of remark, that although the re- presentative of the family of Vizier Mahomed may now be deemed entitled to the name, as well as power of Nuvvab of Bhopal, that title was still given by the inhabitants to Ghous Mahomed The Murajee Kheil Puthans of Bhopal, have some singular institutions, which arose out of their original agreement to maintain the habits and laws of their society, such as they existed in Afghanistan. It is from this patriarchal ^forra of Government, that they claim a limited privilege in the selection of their chief; to whom, however, they deny the right of interfering in the jurisdiction of their respective families. The rights of Affghans and other tribes, in this particular, are invari- ably limited by usage. They must choose a member of the ruling family ; and the Mura- jee Kheil chiefs of Bhopal, appear to have always adherefd as closely to hereditary succession, as attention to the general safety, during a state of anarchy and continual war- fare would admit. Sir John concludes with these words, so emphatically expressive of the feelings of the chiefs and people : Cf The habits and character of this body of men demand our 123 attention. With every good disposition to the British Government, and gratitude for the bene- fits they have derived from it, they are not only jealous of encroachment on their usages, but im- patient of neglect, and turbulent in a degree that requires much care in conducting our relations with them. They are, however, deserving both of that solicitude and favor which they have hi- therto received; for Bhopal is at this moment, (151) and ivill continue while well managed, an essential point of strength in Central India. 39 1819. " By an arrangement framed in 1819, (153) by the Begum and the chiefs, and form- ally recognized by the British Government, Mooneer Mahomed Khan, the nephew of Vizier Mahomed, was declared the successor of the late Nuwab, and betrothed to his only daugh- ter. The regency continued in the hands of the Begum mother, during the minority. But the Nuwab finally relinquished his claim to the hand of the princess, with that of his succes- sion to the throne, in favor of his younger brother.' 3 The Begum mother was, at this period, not above 18 or 19 years of age, but she had been well educated; she was able to read and write the Arabic and Persian lan- guages, and possessed such a very superior mind, that she was able, some years afterwards, (151) 1832. (152) Bengal and Agra Guide and Gazetteer, 1841, vol. 2, patt 2, p 235. R2 124 to carry on the affairs of the principality, owing to her extraordinary ability, and apti- tude for transacting all state affairs. 1820. " In 1820, (153) the military force of Bhopal, it is stated, consisted of 2,000 ca- valry and 5,000 infantry, of which 1,000 were Affghans, from Cabool and Peshawar. The ordnance, garrison and field, amounted to 180 pieces. The revenues were, by the Political Agent, estimated at only nine lakhs of rupees ; but, the full revenue, including Jaghiers, un- der good management, was supposed to be 40 lakhs of rupees/' (154). 1824. " In 1824 (155) the important ob- ject was attained of organizing the Bhopal contingent, by placing it under the command of a European officer, with whom the distri- bution of its regular monthly pay, and the pro- motion of its several ranks, were to rest ; to insure such a discipline as would render it available for operations with our forces, and secure its fidelity to the British Government/' 1828. " Hakeem Shazad Musseeh, ( 1 56) who retired from the office of Dewan, to his Jaghier at Itchawur, died on the 1st of January, 1828. He held for many years the extraordinary posi- tion of a Christian being the minister of a state like that of Bhopal. In his youth, he was the (153) Ditto, p. 234 (154) This estimate is very erroneous. The number of guns is far beyond the actual number. (155) Gazetteer, p. 235. (156) Dtfto, p. 235 125 friend of the distinguished ruler of Bhopal, Nuzzur Mahomed Khan, became his compa- nion in arms, and distinguished himself as an enterprizing and brave leader ; when virtually at the head of the administration, he displayed more rectitude of intention and firmness of conduct in his public capacity, and more inte- grity and disinterestedness in what regarded his private fortune, than can be often found united in the same individual. Such qualities commanded the respect and confidence of the court, and combined with the expenditure of a large portion of his private income, in unos- tentatious acts of charity and munificence ; secured for him the affections of the people. The general knowledge of the Hakeem, was superior to that of most native princes or gen- tlemen ; while the candid and unreserved man- ner in which he expressed himself on all sub- jects, rendered his conversation pleasing. He was succeeded, as minister, by Meean Kurreem Mahomed Khan, who continued satisfactorily to conduct the administration, aided by his Deputy Dewan, Khooshwukt Rae. The Ex- Nuwab, Mooneer Mahomed Khan, who had received on his supercession, a Jaghier va- lued at 40,000 rupees, (157) guaranteed by the British Government; appeared reconciled to the arrangement regarding himself." (157) The Begum mother, most generously, gave him, he* self, a much larger Jaghier. 126 1833, Lord William Bentinck, Governor General, arrived at Saugor, in January, 1833 (158) The Begum mother, or Regent, as well as other chiefs of Malwa, sent a deputation to meet his Lordship. The Bhopal mission consisted of the Nuvvab, (who was accompanied by both his parents,) the minister (Meean Kurreem Mahomed Khan), and all the chiefs of the state. The young Nuwab, after the interchange of the usual ceremonial visits, in a private vi&it, begged to be placed in immediate possession of power. The Gover- nor General, though much pleased with the intelligence he displayed generally, (159) did not deem that request could then be complied with ; but encouraging assurances were given him ; on this occasion his Lordship presented two guns to the Nuwab. The Nuwab's parents, on the return of the Mission to Bhopal, retired to Raiseen, and the ex-Nuwab (Mooneer Mahomed) quitted the Nuwab's residence, and retired to a house provided for him in another part of the city. The minister's son (Sidk Mahomed Khan) was at this time appointed Bukshee, or Pay-master. The old minister (Meean Kurreem Mahomed Khan) died in July, 1833, and his son (Sidk Mahomed Khan) receiv- ed the khillut of investiture as his temporary (158) Gazetteer, p. 236. (159) Said to be accomplished, and to well understand Arabic, Persian, and English. 127 successor: but the Begum Regent shortly afterwards dismissed him from office He had exercised a control over the Begum ; and never allowed her to adopt any course deemed by him objectionable. The Begum, who was about 32 years of age, now determined to look after her own interests. She began to transact business in public, (160) KhooshwuktRae was appointed temporary minister, and received the khillat and sword of office from the NuwaVs hands ; and the title of Rajah Bahadur." The Begurn was distinguished by an abhorrence of debt, to discharge which she was ever ready to dispose of her jewels, and make other per- sonal sacrifices ; she was liberal to her troops and friends, and a severe judge o(such of her servants as were convicted of a breach of faith, or oppression to her poorer subjects. In the choice of her servants charged with the departments of justice and revenue, she show- ed singular discernment ; and, indeed, it was their worth and character which chiefly up- held her and her cause. On the death of Meean Knrreem Mahomed Khan, Baboo Seetaram, a Kunoujeeah Bra- min, became Deewan. He had previously been Vakeel at Indore. He was the Deewan of Bhopai about three and a half years, and was succeeded by Khooshwukt Rae. This person went to England in the year 1825, and (160) Bengum Sumroo did so. 128 returned to India about two years before Lord William Bentinck came to India, 1828, as Governor General. He again went to Eng- land about the end of 1828, with the celebra- ted Ram Mohun Rae, whose cousin he was. He remained in England about three years, and re- turned in the same ship with Bishop Wilson, the present metropolitan of British India. Ram Mohun Rae died in England in the year 1832. The state of affairs, in Bhopal, while See- taram Baboo was Deewan, continued to prosper under his able management ; but, as in former times, there was a Puthan faction which dis- liked the arrangement. Seetaram, like most of the higher class of Brahmins, understands Arabic, Persian, Sanscrit, and the Bengalee language; and his family had been for a great many years employed in the Bhopal principality. It has, at times, happened in that country, that some Puthan noblemen have been displeased at a Hindoo possessing the influence and powers of Deewan : but, the only remedy for such a state of things is, for the Puthan nobles to qualify themselves for office. 1835. This year the marriage of Secunder Bebee with the Nuwab Jehangier Mahomed Khan, was solemnized on the 18th of April, 1835. 1836. In 1836, the Guide and Gazetteer states that " Secunder Begum showed that she, also, had begun to be actuated by ambitious views, 129 the discharge of the duties of the office of Ruler, and deeming it necessary to qualify herself for that she should see the country and the Pur- gunnah officers, she started on the tour of the districts " (161) The young Begum was now about 20 years of age, and it was not surpri- sing that, at such an age, she should wish to learn to govern, and to desire to see her country, and judge for herself, from personal observation. She knew perfectly well that Begum Sumroo transacted her own public af- fairs, and gave her own directions in matters which she could not personally superintend, such as the command of her troops. (162) She knew the exact rent of each village of her Jaghier, and had some very fairly disciplined troops. The young Begum knew, by experi- ence, that by the lamented death of her father (Nuwab Nuzzur Mahomed Khan) her mother had become Regent at an early age, and after a time took upon herself the conduct of pub- lic affairs, which she executed with much ability. The young Begum herself might, also, be placed in the same unfortunate position. The question of the Purdah (163) is one of (161) Must mean Purgunnahs, so called m that country (162) Mr Dyce Sombre, now so well known in Europe, had the general management of her affairs, under her general direction. (163) Purdah. It must be, here, stated that when a Begum or princess transacts business m public, i. e. m the Udalut, or Court of Justice, she is not seen ; but sits behmd a lattice-worked S 130 long established custom among Mahomedans. But it is a custom which does not prevent the female sovereign of a country from exercising in public the duties of the state. Without a proper knowledge gained by travelling through the country, and listening to complaints, how can a prince or princess select proper minis- ters, (164) or do justice to the people ? 1837. It was at length settled, after a ne- gotiation of some days, that the Nuwab, hav- ing been previously placed on the musnud, or throne, on the 29th of November, 1837, the Begum mother assisting, and taking part in the ceremony, should be inducted into the despatch of public business. In July, in the year 1838, Secunder Begum was delivered of a daughter door, and hears what is said, and gives answers, and decides cases in pei son. (164) The time has arnved when attention m India is being directed to the education of females, natives of India Nothing will more improve the minds and morals of the people, because it will raise the character of the women ; and in all countnes where the females are well educated, it is held to be a reproach to the men to be infenorly educated. Good education tends much to social order, and respect to Governments. The ignorant cannot appreciate the measures of their supenors, so long as they are uneducated The well-educated can and will act as a check upon the licentious and disorderly. It is to be hoped that the Verna- cular plan will be earned out. Until a useful education shall be given to the natives, by which they shall be enabled to under- stand the best mode of labouring in their calling, and to become acquainted with the more perfect systems of other nations ; there will be no improvement in agriculture, or in the arts. European modes, modified, may be adopted with advantage to India. 131 1840. " In the year 1840, the political agent at Sehore (165) submitted a proposal for the reformation of the Bhopai contingent, which was approved of by the Governor General. The late Brigadier AnquetiL, (166), was consulted as to the re-organization of the corps The Nuwab agreed to increase the tribute (167) paid for its maintenance from 130,000 to 138,000 rupees, in order to forward the completion of the projected reforms. The Cavalry were reduced from 300 to 256 sabres, and the Infantry from 653 to 528 fighting men, making a total of 784 men (168) The Infantry were thenceforth to have muskets instead of matchlocks, and an increased rate of pay. There were two guns attached to the corps. The corps to be commanded by'a European commandant assisted by an Adjutant" (169) It has been stated by Sir John Malcolm, (170) alluding to the exercise of authority by the Minister, that " The history of Bhopai, while this system continued, consists in the proceed- (165) The late Mr Wilkinson, of the Madras Civil Service (166) Killed in the retieat from Cabool m January, 1842. (167) Or rather the contingent was kept up (must be under- stood) in lieu of paying tribute , though the 125,000 rupees proposed as tribute was given up in 1818 (168) The original numbeis were Cavalry 600 and infantry 400, or total 1,000 men. The reform made the 784 men, with muskets, a more efficient corps than before ; particularly with the addition of the guns. (169) Gazetteer. (170) Page 365 S 2 132 ings of the Dewans, or Ministers/' (171) It will have been observed that since the death of Dost Mahomed Khan, the Founder, in 1723, most of the Deewans have managed the state affairs : except in the time of Vizier Mahomed Khan, and of Nuzzur Mahomed Khan equal in military character to Dost Mahomed Khan ; and the above named Nuwabs were even more accomplished than the Founder of the princi- pality. It has been stated that the widow of Yar Mahomed Khan, greatly influenced the Councils of Bhopal for more than half a cen- tury. The Begum mother, when Regent of Bhopal, proved herself in every way, from her knowledge and acquirements, to be perfectly mistress of the art of Government : and her daughter, the present Begum of Bhopal, pos- sesses high qualities for the exercise of the sovereign power ; which has for some years been in her hands. These two princesses have (171) They have chiefly been Hindoos. The reason of it is this, Hindoos, Brahmins in particular, have more application than Mahomedans. Scarcely any Hindoo of good family is to be found who is not able to read and write Persian, if not Arabic, with fluency and facility. A high caste Brahmin will geneially possess a know- ledge of the Sanscrit language Mahomedan noblemen and gentle- men read for their own amusement, and if possessed of propeity, do not like the drudgery of office Mooieed Mahomed Khan, proved a very bad Deewan. Jowlad Khan and Chutta Khan, were originally Hindoos When Vizier Mahomed Khan was Dewan, the country prospered His conduct of affairs proved his aptitude for the Nuwabship. At Hyderabad, Chundoo Lai (of the writer caste) has for a great many years been Deewan, or Minister at that Court. 133 never allowed the Minister to decide alone, on state questions,, or on matters of consequence. It is to be hoped that measures may be adopted to improve the Bhopal principality., to the utmost of its means : and in accordance with the sincere desire of the ruling authorities ; for to use the words of Sir John Malcolm " Bho- pal is at this moment, and will continue while well managed, an essential point of strength in Central India:' (172) (172) From an extract of a letter of the 13th December 1844, from Indore, it appears that the Nuwab of Bhopal, Jehanghir Mahomed Khan, died on the 9th of December, 1844. It is said that the daughter of the Nuwab, and of the present (Secunder) Begum of Bhopal will be the successor. ERBATA, Page 3, note 5,/or " 40" read " 140 years." 8, /or"puthan"rcflrf"Puthan." 9> 10, --" 13j ' 9, note 12, ke 4,/or "toh" read " to." 17,/or "Jowlad," read "Fowlad." ke 13,/or "resolute," read "violent." 19, ke 4,/or Sahore," read " Sehore " 38, ke 14,/or " an" read "no." 43, ke 14,/or " Hylut," read " Hytut." 46,ke5,/or"he,"m<*"be." 52, note 62,/or "Nowlut Ba Lai," read " Nowbut Lai " 70, ke 2, after " town," pat " ;". 89, ke 14,/or "Soneepoor," read "Sonepoor." 91, ke 18,/or " Sapgur," read " Sangor." 107, ke 5 in note, after " these," put a comma, and after "letters," omit comma. 108, ke 2, m note 131,/or " Itchamur," read "Itchawur." 112, note 138,/or " Namdur" read " Namdar." 115, note 142, ke 9, before Baitooljor "or," read "and," after " Baitool," add "wanting." 129, read ke the second before the first ke. 132, ke 9, in note 171,/or " Jowlad," read " Fowlad."