Question

Identify the city ruled by ‘Begums-the Queens.’

• A. Hyderabad
• B. Murshidabad
• C. Bhopal
• D. Aligarh

Hint:

Bhopal is the only princely state in India that was ruled by female rulers (Begums) for such a long continuous period.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is C

Step 1: Understanding the phrase “Begums-the Queens.”
The term “Begums-the Queens” refers to the unique period in Indian history when a princely state was ruled by a succession of female Muslim rulers known as Begums.

Step 2: Historical background.
The princely state of Bhopal was ruled by four Begums between 1819 and 1926. These rulers were Shah Jahan Begum, Sikandar Begum, Qudsia Begum, and Sultan Jahan Begum, who were known for their administrative efficiency and progressive reforms.

Step 3: Analyzing the options.
(A) Hyderabad: Ruled by Nizams, not Begums.
(B) Murshidabad: Associated with Nawabs of Bengal.
(C) Bhopal: Correct — it was uniquely ruled by Begums for over a century.
(D) Aligarh: Known for educational reforms, not female rulers.

Step 4: Conclusion.
The city ruled by “Begums-the Queens” was Bhopal.