“Women’s Dynasty”: A Golden Century of an Indian Princely State

Abstract

Bhopal, one of six hundred “native states” in colonial India, was for more than a century ruled by a unique “women`s dynasty”. At the same time, the men of the princely family, including the queens’ spouses, were entirely incompetent and pushed away from political life. Four generations of female rulers became famous for their energetic and effective works: always loyal to Islam and Muslim culture, they challenged gender stereotypes (both in their families and in the British administration), protected and ameliorated the territory, undertook many reforms and infrastructural projects, contributed significantly to female education and health protection, pursued the policy of religious tolerance. The achievements of the Bhopal queens earned recognition both from their compatriots and from colonial suzerains. The article discussed the life stories of the four women rulers, their “female destinies” against the background of the colonial epoch and its political crises, in relations with their families, local elites, and British administration.