|

Hyderabad city, located in what is popularly known
as Deccan Plateau has been ruled by many dynasties of
Indian Central, in the past. The entire Deccan region
was subjected to rise and fall of many great dynasties
and rulers in medieval India. Hyderabad as we know it
today emerged after the fall of Bahmani Kingdom in Deccan.
It was time for Qutb Shahi's to rule with the break
up of the dynasty in the year 1512 A.D. Quli Qutb Shahi
who succeeded the same year established the famous Golconda
Fort that marked the birth of Hyderabad city.
Qutb Shahi's ruled Deccan for continuos 171 years. It
was during this period trade and commerce flourished
in the region. The extraction and production of diamonds,
pearls, steel and fabric earned a great reputation for
the place. The material development was further complemented
with the growth of the city as a learning center. Indo-Persian
and Islamic literature was given a fillip. Wealth started
accumulating and the citizens enjoyed great many facilities.
This golden age, however, came to an abrupt end with
the conquest of the place at the hands of Mughal emperor,
Aurangzeb. The year was 1687 and after a siege that
lasted about eight months Aurangzeb was victorious in
capturing Golconda Fort. The last king of the defeated
kingdom, Abul Hassan Tana Shah died in captivity twelve
years later.
Hyderabad continued to be occupied by Mughals until
the death of Aurangzeb. In 1707, Aurangzeb succumbed
and the stronghold over Hyderabad weakened. The region
at that point of time was administered by viceroys appointed
by the Mughal. The year 1724 opened a new chapter in
the history of Hyderabad. Mir Quamaruddin who bore the
title of Nizam, declared independence and the city split
from Mughal kingdom. This led to the establishment of
Asif Jahi period. The seven Nizam's who followed ruled
for a good 224 years.
During Asif Jahi period literature recieved a special
attention. Persian, Urdu, Telegu and Marathi developed
in the region. Trade and commerce slowly caught pace
and the region once again came to limelight. The city
continued to be ruled by the dynasty till 1948 when
India got its independence. Asaf Jahi rulers had good
relations with the East India Company and after signing
the accord in 1798, the city ensured its individuality
and independence. |