ʿAlīvardī as Deputy Governor of Bihar
Summary
'Alivardi was appointed Deputy Governor of Bihar in 1733 after the annexation of the province to the Bengal Subah following the dismissal of Fakhr-ud-daulah, whose uneducated and arrogant rule had led to administrative failures and unrest. His appointment was influenced by Shuja'ud-din's need for a strong administrator and the support of key figures like Zebunnisa, who opposed her son Sarfaraz's or his half-brother Taqi Khin's candidacy. 'Alivardi received formal investiture and honors, including the title of Mahabat Jang and a military rank, from Shuja'ud-din and later directly from the Mughal court. Facing a turbulent Bihar marked by rebellious zamindars, roving Banjara plunderers, and general disorder, 'Alivardi implemented decisive measures. He restored order in Patna, recruited a loyal military force, including the powerful Ruhela chief Abdul Karim Khin and his Afghans, and suppressed zamindar revolts through strategic divisions and firm control. His administration stabilized the province, countering earlier chaos under Fakhr-ud-daulah. The period also saw the birth of Mirza Muhammad (later Siraj-ud-daulah), 'Alivardi's grandson, who became a focal point of his affection. Historical inaccuracies about 'Alivardi's early governance, such as claims of direct Mughal titles without Shuja'ud-din's approval, are corrected here.
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Conclusion
'Alivardi's appointment as Deputy Governor of Bihar marked a pivotal moment in consolidating Bengal's administrative authority over a region plagued by rebellion and chaos. His selection by Shuja'ud-din, amid factional rivalries and administrative collapse, underscored the need for a decisive leader to quell unrest and restore order. 'Alivardi's immediate actions—securing imperial honors and addressing Bihar's turbulent zamindars and bandaras—highlighted his strategic acumen and the urgency of stabilizing the province. The annexation of Bihar to Bengal, coupled with his elevated status as Mahabat Jang, symbolized the centralization of power and Bengal's rising influence. This transition not only curbed immediate disorder but also laid the groundwork for more cohesive governance, reflecting 'Alivardi's ability to navigate court politics and regional challenges effectively.