The Hyderabad Kingdom, founded in 1724 by Nizam-ul-Mulk Qamaruddin, evolved into a powerful state in the Deccan region. Originally a Mughal province, it grew independent during the empire’s decline. It remained a princely state under British rule and refused to join the Indian Union in 1947. In 1948, India integrated Hyderabad through Operation Polo.

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• Hyderabad became independent in 1724 under Nizam Qamaruddin, founder of Asaf Jahi dynasty
• Originally part of Mughal Empire; Mughals lost control after Aurangzeb’s Deccan campaigns
• Aurangzeb captured Golconda in 1687 with aid from commanders like Khwaja Abid Siddiqi
• Qamaruddin titled “Asaf Jah” by Mughal emperor; ruled Deccan with autonomy
• Hyderabad joined British subsidiary alliance in 1798; kept internal autonomy under Nizams
• After 1947, Nizam wanted independence or Pakistan ties despite 85% Hindu population
• India opposed secession; signed standstill agreement with Hyderabad in Nov 1947
• Operation Polo launched in Sep 1948; Hyderabad merged into Indian Union
• Hyderabad saw major cultural, economic growth under Nizams—patrons of art, literature
• Asaf Jah VII listed among world’s richest; ruled till integration in 1948