Understanding Jean-Baptist Tavernier and Golconda's Capital

The question asks for the name used by the French traveller Jean-Baptist Tavernier for the capital city of Golconda. Jean-Baptist Tavernier was a famous French gem merchant and traveller who made six voyages to Persia and India between 1630 and 1668. His detailed accounts of his travels provide valuable insights into the regions he visited, including the Sultanate of Golconda.

Golconda Sultanate and its Capital

The Golconda Sultanate was a significant kingdom in the Deccan region of India. Its original center was the Golconda Fort. However, the capital city was later moved to a newly built city nearby.

The Founding of Hyderabad (Bhagnagar)

The city that became the capital was founded by Muhammad Quli Qutb Shah, the fifth sultan of the Qutb Shahi dynasty, in 1591. This city was initially named Bhagnagar. Later, it was renamed Hyderabad.

Tavernier's Account of the Capital City

Jean-Baptist Tavernier visited the Golconda Sultanate during his travels. In his writings, he refers to the capital city, which was Hyderabad, by its earlier name, Bhagnagar. He described its wealth and grandeur, particularly its diamond trade.

Analyzing the Options

• Golconda: Golconda was the name of the fort and the sultanate itself, not the new capital city built by Muhammad Quli Qutb Shah.
• Bhagnagar: This was the initial name of the city founded near Golconda Fort, which later became Hyderabad. Tavernier used this name in his accounts.
• Falaknuma: Falaknuma is the name of a palace built much later (in the late 19th century) in Hyderabad, not the name of the capital city during Tavernier's time.
• Hyderabad: This is the later name for the city initially called Bhagnagar. While it was the capital during parts of Tavernier's visits, he is known to have referred to it by its earlier name, Bhagnagar.

Based on historical accounts and Tavernier's own writings, he referred to the capital city of Golconda, which was the city now known as Hyderabad, as Bhagnagar.

Conclusion

The name by which the French traveller Jean-Baptist Tavernier called the capital city of Golconda was Bhagnagar.

Revision Table: French Travellers in India

Additional Information: Golconda Sultanate and Hyderabad

The Golconda Sultanate was one of the five Deccan Sultanates. It was founded in 1518 by Sultan Quli Qutb-ul-Mulk. The Qutb Shahi dynasty ruled Golconda for nearly 170 years.

The capital was initially at Golconda Fort, a formidable structure known for its acoustic system and defensive architecture. The city of Hyderabad was founded to alleviate water shortages and congestion around the fort. It was planned with broad streets and public gardens.

The renaming from Bhagnagar to Hyderabad is often attributed to the sultan's favorite courtesan, Bhagmati, who upon converting to Islam took the name Hyder Mahal. However, historical debate exists regarding the exact circumstances and timing of the name change.

Golconda was renowned worldwide for its diamond mines. Famous diamonds like the Koh-i-Noor, Hope Diamond, and Regent Diamond are believed to have originated from the mines near Golconda.