Who was the nawab of bengal at the time the novel anandamath is set

General
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who was the nawab of bengal at the time the novel anandamath is set

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The novel “Anandamath,” written by Bankim Chandra Chattopadhyay, is set during the late 18th century, specifically around the period of the Bengal famine of 1770. During this time, the Nawab of Bengal was Nawab Nazim Saif Ali Mo’min ud-Daulah Nawajesh Muhammad Khan, commonly known as Nawab Najm-ud-Daulah. However, it’s important to note that by this period, the effective power over Bengal was wielded by the British East India Company following the Battle of Plassey in 1757 and the Battle of Buxar in 1764.

Historical Context

Nawabs of Bengal

  1. Mir Jafar (1757–1760 & 1763–1765): After the Battle of Plassey, Mir Jafar was installed by the British East India Company as a puppet Nawab but was soon replaced due to dissatisfaction with his rule.

  2. Mir Qasim (1760–1763): He succeeded Mir Jafar but was later ousted by the British after the Battle of Buxar.

  3. Mir Jafar (Restored 1763–1765): He was reinstated by the British but remained ineffective as the power further shifted to the British.

  4. Najm-ud-Daulah (1765–1766): In the aftermath of these events, Najm-ud-Daulah became Nawab, but his rule was purely titular with real power resting with the British.

By the time of the Bengal Famine in 1770, the Nawabs had very limited autonomy and were largely controlled by the East India Company.

The Significance of “Anandamath”

  • “Anandamath” explores themes of nationalism and resistance against British colonial rule.
  • The novel is famous for featuring the song “Vande Mataram,” which later became a symbol of Indian independence and was adopted as a national song.
  • The narrative involves a fictional revolt inspired by the historical settings and events, such as the famine and the declining authority of local rulers like the Nawab.

Summary

In conclusion, the Nawab of Bengal at the time “Anandamath” is set was Nawab Najm-ud-Daulah, although his position was largely ceremonial with real control exerted by the British. The novel uses this historical backdrop to weave a story about resistance and national identity, reflecting the broader struggle of Indians against colonial rule. For further historical exploration related to the Nawabs or the British rule in Bengal, you might find relevant topics in Indian history interesting to explore.