The Begums of Bhopal

A discussion about the history of Bhopal will bring forward a very important period when the place was ruled by the ‘The Begums of Bhopal'. The meteoric rise of the female rulers in the male dominated world can be considered as a fascinating example of women power. Not only that, being a part of the conservative Islamic royal families, their endeavors were even more praiseworthy.

The Begums of Bhopal took hold of the administration of the princely state of Bhopal during the rule of Qudsia in the nineteenth century. She ruled the province with firm hands on behalf of Sikander – her daughter. Qudsia performed the dual role of bringing up Sikander and governing the state with elan. Sikander, with her mother's guidance grew up as a strong lady. Not only in her physical strength but she excelled in every other aspects also. She was one of the nineteenth century social reformer and modernist.

Shajehan succeeded her mother Sikander and carried on the good work despite constant opposition from her subjects and the British. Her popularity suffered a blow because of her ill-mannered husband. She was a great connoisseur of arts and music. Sultan Jahan was the last Begum of Bhopal and rose with her own capability. She became the first chancellor of the Muslim Aligarh University and the foremost president of the All India Education Conference. She was a social worker in true sense and dedicated herself to the promotion of education among the women.