The Legacy of Nawab Shah Jahan Begum of Bhopal
The Begums of Bhopal were trailblazers, defying societal norms and reshaping the course of history in India. Among them, Nawab Shah Jahan Begum stands out for her indomitable spirit and unwavering commitment to progress. While her contemporary, Mughal emperor Shah Jahan, is celebrated for his architectural marvels, Nawab Shah Jahan Begum remains largely forgotten in the annals of history. Yet, her contributions to art, architecture, economics, development and women’s empowerment are profound and enduring.
Born in Islamnagar near Bhopal on July 29, 1838, Shahjahan Begum was the daughter of Sikandar Begum, the Nawab of Bhopal, and her husband Jahangir Mohammed Khan. She ascended to the throne twice, first from 1844 to 1860 under her mother’s regency, and then from 1868 until her passing in 1901. Despite facing setbacks, including being set aside in favor of her mother in 1860, she emerged as a pivotal figure in Indian feminist history.
In 1855, Shahjahan Begum married Baqi Muhammad Khan, a Bhopal nobleman of moderate status, becoming his third wife. Baqi Muhammad Khan passed away in 1867. After four years, Shahjahan married Siddiq Hasan Khan from Kannauj, in what was then known as the United Provinces. However, the second marriage didn’t result in any children. She chose to retire behind purdah after her second marriage, focusing her efforts on governance and administration. Her accomplishments did not go unnoticed, as evidenced by her appointment as Knight Grand Commander in 1872—a testament to her exceptional leadership and dedication to the welfare of her people. Her marriages were not merely personal affairs but strategic alliances aimed at bolstering her reign and influence. However, personal tragedies, including the deaths of her husbands and granddaughters, punctuated her reign.
Despite enduring personal tragedies and health challenges, Nawab Shah Jahan Begum’s leadership left an indelible mark on Bhopal and beyond. Her progressive policies, advocacy for women’s education, and diplomatic acumen laid the foundation for a more inclusive and enlightened society. Yet, her legacy remains overshadowed by the patriarchal narratives of history.
As we reflect on the legacy of Nawab Shah Jahan Begum, it is imperative to reclaim her rightful place in history. Her story serves as a testament to the resilience of women in the face of adversity and the transformative power of visionary leadership. By honoring her memory, we pay homage to all those who have fought tirelessly to challenge societal norms and pave the way for a brighter future.
In her final years, Nawab Shah Jahan Begum grappled with illness and personal grievances, yet her commitment to her people never wavered. On June 16, 1901, she passed away, leaving behind a legacy of courage, compassion, and progressive governance. As her daughter Nawab Sultan Jahan Begum ascended the throne, she inherited not only a kingdom but also a legacy of empowerment and enlightenment forged by her illustrious mother.
Nawab Shah Jahan Begum was indeed a pioneering figure in Indian history. Her reign, spanning over 33 years, was marked by a remarkable array of achievements that transformed Bhopal into a thriving center of commerce, culture, and education. From the issuance of postage stamps to the establishment of schools and monumental architectural projects, Nawab Shah Jahan Begum’s legacy continues to inspire generations.
One of her significant contributions was the introduction of postage stamps in the Bhopal state. In 1876 and 1878, under her patronage, the first postage stamps of half and quarter anna denominations were issued, bearing the inscription “HH Nawab Shahjahan Begam.” This initiative not only facilitated communication within the state but also symbolized its growing autonomy and administrative prowess. Stamps from 1876 featured the inscription “HH Nawab Shahjahan Begam” within an octagonal frame, while the 1878 stamps displayed the same text within a circular frame, along with the Urdu rendition of the Begum’s title. The final stamps bearing her name were released in 1902, with the inscription “H.H. Nawab Sultan Jahan Begam”. Bhopal’s state postal service continued issuing its own postage stamps until 1949. From the second release in 1908, official stamps were issued until 1945, bearing inscriptions such as “Bhopal State” or “Bhopal Govt.” In 1949, two surcharged stamps were issued, marking the conclusion of Bhopal’s independent stamp issuance.
Nawab Shah Jahan Begum’s rule was marked by progressive reforms and a commitment to education. She engaged directly in state affairs, fostering diplomatic ties with the British. Her support for the Aligarh movement, advocating for modern education among Muslims, exemplified her forward-thinking approach. Following in the footsteps of her mother, she inaugurated the first day-school in 1860 and subsequently founded two girls’ schools and seventy-six primary schools, laying the groundwork for widespread literacy and empowerment. In 1871, she enforced a decree stipulating that individuals seeking positions in the State Office must possess certification from a school or college, aiming to bolster educational pursuits.
Her vision extended beyond the confines of her state. Recognizing the transformative power of education, she championed the establishment of a college for Hindu and Muslim girls, emphasizing the importance of gender-inclusive education. Through her patronage of the Aligarh movement and her role as chancellor of the university, she sought to unite diverse communities under a common pursuit of knowledge and progress.
Leading the inaugural convocation of Aligarh university, she reportedly remarked in her speech, “We meet today to celebrate the First Convocation of our University, the fruit of fifty years of our national exertion and aspirations. To the pioneer of this movement, Sir Syed Ahmad Khan, Mohsinul Mulk, and Viqarul Mulk, who first saw the vision of a common and united center of Muslim culture, and who devoted their lives to its realization, the nation owes a great debt of gratitude. Great would have been their happiness to see their efforts crowned with success.” Her book, Aktar-e-Iqbal, documents her rule from the 8th to the 12th year of her reign, emphasizing the importance of educating girls consistently throughout the book. Page 179 of Aktar-e-Iqbal reads, “The most important thing for women in India is to provide them with educational opportunities. So, it was planned to establish a college for both Hindu and Muslim girls to educate them according to their requirements.”
Nawab Shah Jahan Begum’s passion for architecture manifested in her patronage of monumental projects such as the Qasr-e-Nawabi Palace (now Saifia College) and the Taj-ul-Masjid mosque. These grand structures not only enhanced the city’s skyline but also served as symbols of cultural and religious identity. Additionally, her investment in public-works projects, including the construction of a railway line between Hoshangabad and Bhopal, facilitated connectivity and economic growth.
Under her stewardship, Bhopal witnessed significant advancements in governance and infrastructure. Nawab Shah Jahan Begum revamped the tax revenue system, increased state income, modernized the military, and undertook vital public-health initiatives, including the first census after two devastating plagues. To address budget deficits, she commissioned the farming of opium—a pragmatic solution that ensured fiscal stability while prioritizing the welfare of her subjects.
One of Nawab Shah Jahan Begum’s most enduring legacies is her advocacy for education and the arts. A poet herself, she cultivated a vibrant intellectual environment in Bhopal, attracting writers, musicians, and scholars from far and wide. Her patronage of the arts not only enriched the cultural fabric of the city but also fostered creativity and innovation among its residents.
In 1884, Nawab Shah Jahan Begum achieved a significant milestone by connecting the state to the national railway system—an achievement that facilitated trade, commerce, and cultural exchange. Her vision of Bhopal as a hub for commerce and culture became a reality, thanks to her tireless efforts and unwavering commitment to progress.
Nawab Shah Jahan Begum’s legacy extends far beyond her reign as the Begum of Bhopal. As a prolific author, visionary leader, and philanthropist, she left an indelible mark on Indian history and culture. Her contributions to literature, architecture, and education continue to inspire and resonate with generations.
A testament to her literary prowess is the collection of books she authored in Urdu. “Gauhar-i-Iqbaal” and its sequel “Akhtar-i-Iqbaal” offer invaluable insights into the socio-political landscape of Bhopal during her reign. These works, authored by Nawab Shah Jahan Begum herself, serve as historical documents chronicling the major events and conditions of the time. Additionally, “An Account of My Life,” translated into English by C. H. Payne, provides a glimpse into the personal experiences and reflections of the Begum, offering a unique perspective on her life and reign.
Nawab Shah Jahan Begum’s architectural vision is evident in the monumental projects she initiated, including the Taj-ul-Masajid and the Taj Mahal palace in Bhopal. While the construction of the Taj-ul-Masajid remained incomplete at the time of her death, its grandeur and significance endure as a testament to her commitment to religious and cultural heritage. Furthermore, her philanthropic endeavors extended beyond the borders of Bhopal, with sizeable donations towards the construction of a mosque in Woking, Surrey, and the founding of the Muhammadan Anglo-Oriental College, later known as the Aligarh Muslim University.
In addition to her literary and architectural contributions, Nawab Shah Jahan Begum introduced numerous reforms and infrastructural developments during her reign. Special laws for Hindu protection, the establishment of a Hindu Property Trust, and provisions for Haj pilgrims exemplify her commitment to religious tolerance and inclusivity. Furthermore, her leadership in conducting the first census post-plague and balancing budgets through opium farming underscore her pragmatic approach to governance and economic stability.
As we reflect on the legacy of Nawab Shah Jahan Begum, we are reminded of her multifaceted contributions to literature, architecture, and governance. Her visionary leadership and unwavering dedication to progress continue to inspire and resonate with individuals across the globe. Nawab Shah Jahan Begum’s enduring legacy serves as a beacon of hope and inspiration for generations to come, reminding us of the transformative power of visionary leadership and philanthropy in shaping the course of history.
