Murshid Quli Khan Identified as Nawab of Bengal

This question asks to identify the region where Murshid Quli Khan served as the nawab. Murshid Quli Khan holds a significant place in Indian history, particularly concerning the province of Bengal during the early 18th century.

Who was Murshid Quli Khan?

Murshid Quli Khan was a prominent governor who rose to prominence during the later years of the Mughal Empire. He was known for his administrative skills and financial reforms.

Murshid Quli Khan's Role in Bengal

Murshid Quli Khan was appointed the Diwan (Chief revenue administrator) of Bengal by Emperor Aurangzeb in 1700. Later, he was also made the Governor (Nawab Nazim) of Bengal. He shifted the capital from Dhaka to a new city named Murshidabad (also known as Muqshudabad) after himself. Murshid Quli Khan is widely regarded as the first Nawab of Bengal to rule independently of the Mughal emperors, effectively establishing a hereditary rule in the province.

Analysis of Options

Let's look at why the other options are incorrect:

• Lucknow: Lucknow was the capital of the Awadh state, ruled by Nawabs like Shuja-ud-Daula and Asaf-ud-Daula, who were different historical figures.
• Varanasi: While an important city, Varanasi was not the primary seat of a nawab in the same context as Bengal or Awadh. It was under the control of various rulers, including the Nawab of Awadh at different times.
• Hyderabad: Hyderabad was the capital of the Deccan region, ruled by the Nizams (like Nizam-ul-Mulk Asaf Jah I), who established an independent state separate from the Mughals.
• Mysore: Mysore was a southern kingdom, famously ruled by the Wodeyar dynasty, Hyder Ali, and Tipu Sultan, none of whom were associated with the title of Nawab of Bengal.

Conclusion

Based on historical records, Murshid Quli Khan was the Nawab of Bengal. He laid the foundation for the future independence of Bengal from the weakening Mughal control.