Nawab Muhammad
Ali Beg
Sir Afsar-ul-Mulk Bahadur, KCIE, MVO
Commander-in-Chief, Hyderabad State Forces
A deep investigation into the life, legacy, and personal world of one of Hyderabad's most influential military and political figures (1862–1930).
Sir Afsar-ul-Mulk on horseback, by Raja Deen Dayal, c. 1903
Executive Summary
This investigation has successfully unearthed a wealth of detailed information and personal anecdotes concerning Sir Afsar-ul-Mulk, painting a vivid picture of a complex and highly capable figure who navigated the intricate political and social world of Hyderabad with remarkable skill.
Personality & Character
Described as a "far sighted, calculating, clever young man" by contemporary Nawab Server-ul-Mulk. Politically astute, pragmatic, and an exceptional horseman.
Family & Home
Resided at Rahmat Manzil, a Victorian mansion gifted by the 6th Nizam. Wife: Begum Sahiba (Khala Jan). Household blended tradition with modernity.
Military Achievements
First native Indian officer to command the entire Hyderabad army. Served in the Afghan War, Boxer Rebellion, and World War I.
Sons & Descendants
Major Nawab Osman Yar-ud-Daulah (eldest son, military career) and Nawab Khusru Jung (jockey, race commentator, sports journalist).
Biographical Profile
In full military dress uniform with medals and decorations
Personal Details
Family Background
Honours
Sir Afsar-ul-Mulk hailed from a distinguished family with a history of service to the Mughal emperors and later, the British. His father, Sir Vilayet Ali Beg, was also a General, setting a precedent for military service in the family. He entered the service of the Nizam of Hyderabad and quickly distinguished himself, not only through his military prowess but also through his sharp intellect and political acumen. His career saw him serve under two Nizams: the 6th Nizam, Mir Mahboob Ali Khan, and the 7th and last Nizam, Mir Osman Ali Khan. He was a prominent figure at major imperial events, attending the Delhi Durbars of 1903 and 1911, and the coronation of King Edward VII in London in 1902.
Personality & Character
The most revealing insights come from the autobiography of Nawab Server-ul-Mulk Bahadur, a fellow nobleman and a key figure in Hyderabad's court. Having known Afsar-ul-Mulk from a young age, his assessment provides a rare, unfiltered glimpse into his character.
Nawab Server-ul-Mulk, 1890s — the contemporary who described Sir Afsar-ul-Mulk's character
A Contemporary Assessment
"...a far sighted, calculating, clever young man."
— Nawab Server-ul-Mulk Bahadur, autobiography (1931)
This description, written by a peer, is invaluable. It confirms that Afsar-ul-Mulk's success was not merely a matter of birth or fortune, but was built on a foundation of sharp intellect and strategic thinking. The use of the word "calculating" suggests a man who thought several steps ahead, a crucial trait in the often-treacherous environment of a princely court.
The Pragmatic Operator
"He would worship the rising sun, and then would not hesitate to turn his face from it when it set."
This vivid metaphor paints a picture of a consummate political survivor, one who understood the shifting tides of power and aligned himself accordingly. In the context of the time, it was a necessary skill for maintaining influence and achieving one's objectives.
A Man of Ambition
"Afsur Jung Bahadur, who came to be looked upon as the maker of the Ministry, began to cast longing eyes at the Nazm-i-Jamiath (the regular forces)..."
This demonstrates his proactive and ambitious nature. He was not content to rest on his laurels but was constantly seeking to consolidate and grow his authority, particularly in the military sphere that was his domain.
Contrasting Lifestyles
"...he would hold up Afsur Jung as a model, and set forth what a luxurious, comfortable life he was able to live."
This contrast highlights the material success that accompanied Afsar-ul-Mulk's high station and suggests that he lived in a manner befitting his rank as a top noble and Commander-in-Chief of the state.
Personal Anecdotes
The Handkerchief Incident: A Display of Horsemanship
"One day His Highness, with the Minister and companions went out to Sarurnagar to enjoy the air. While they were on the road, the Minister dropped his handkerchief, and Mirza Mohamed Ali Beg galloped after it, and, without dismounting, bent down and lifted it from the ground. For this performance he received praises from all sides."
This act, performed in the presence of the Nizam and the Prime Minister, was a masterful piece of personal branding — a public demonstration of the agility, precision, and expert horsemanship expected of a cavalry officer and future commander.
The Nazar Ceremony: Setting Court Precedent
"It seems that when H.E.H ascended the Gaddi, Nawab Sir Afsar-ul-Mulk and Sir Faridoon-ul-Mulk after offering 'nazar' to H.E.H. placed their heads on the feet of H.E.H."
— V.K. Bawa, "The Last Nizam" (1992)
This act of fealty, performed by two of the most senior nobles of the state, set the standard for all others. Another noble, suffering from gout, attempted to follow their lead and fell, prompting the Nizam to issue a firman (decree) about the practice.
A Trusted Aide for the Young Nizam
His importance was recognized early on. When the young Mir Osman Ali Khan was being educated, Sir Afsar-ul-Mulk was personally chosen to oversee his physical and military training.
"Nawab Afsar-ud-Daula, Commander-in-Chief of the Hyderabad State forces, was appointed to look after his shooting lessons and physical exercise. The course of instruction included the Urdu and Persian languages, riding, tent-pegging, cricket and other exercises."
— V.K. Bawa, "The Last Nizam" (1992)
Family, Home & Lifestyle
The impressive facade of Rahmat Manzil, the Victorian mansion of Sir Afsar Jung (Afsar-ul-Mulk). Later demolished for the Reserve Bank of India building.
Rahmat Manzil: The Family Seat
Sir Afsar-ul-Mulk's primary residence was Rahmat Manzil, a grand Victorian-style mansion in Hyderabad. This was not just a house but the center of the family's social and cultural life. According to historical accounts, the mansion was a gift from the 6th Nizam, Mir Mahboob Ali Khan, a sign of the high esteem in which he was held.
The Lady of the House
His wife, referred to as Begum Sahiba and affectionately as "Khala Jan", was a formidable hostess who presided over the social life of Rahmat Manzil, hosting elaborate all-day gatherings for large numbers of guests.
"The first dinner and breakfast included my entire family, male and female. It was hosted by Colonel Nawab Sir Afsar ul-Mulk's wife and the colonel himself. I was hosted inside the house with my sisters and sisters-in-law... Begum sahiba, whom I call Khala Jan, asked me to come at nine in the morning. She had me stay until evening."
— A Journey to Mecca and London (1909-1910), Indiana University Press
Gracious Hospitality
Elaborate, all-day affairs for large numbers of guests, with separate spaces for men and women
Modern Conveniences (1909)
Owned a motorcar, employed English governesses, Victorian architecture and furnishings
Warmth & Tradition
Observation of purdah, tying imam zamin (protective amulet) on departing guests, qawwali gatherings
Sons & Descendants
Major Nawab Osman Yar-ud-Daulah
The eldest son, who also pursued a military career, following in his father's footsteps. He is the direct ancestor connecting to the client's grandmother.
Nawab Khusru Jung
The younger son, who made a name for himself in the world of sports. He was a well-known jockey, a race commentator, and a sports journalist.
Military Career & Achievements
Rise to Commander-in-Chief
His ascent to the highest military office in the state was a remarkable achievement. As noted in the Indian Biographical Dictionary (1915), he was the first native Indian officer to be entrusted with the command of the whole army in Hyderabad.
"...the Government knowing that Mirza Mohamed Ali Beg was a Muslim, and also a trained man, they continued to promote him. They also believed that he being a servant of the Nizam, would be loyal... he was, soon after Colonel Nevill's death, appointed Commander of the Regular Troops, and then, soon after that, he became Commander-in-Chief of the State Troops."
Native Indian Officers, Imperial Service Troops, at the coronation of King Edward VII, 1902
Active Service Record
Second Afghan War (1879-80)
His early career was forged in this major conflict on the North-West Frontier
Black Mountain Expedition (1888)
A punitive expedition on the North-West Frontier of British India
Boxer Rebellion, China (1900)
Commanded the Hyderabad contingent as part of the international force sent to relieve the besieged legations in Peking
Great War (1914-18)
Served as ADC to King George V; attached to the general staff in Egypt and France
Officers of the Hyderabad Household Troops
Lancers of the Hyderabad Contingent on the march
Photographic Record
Historical photographs assembled from archives, museums, and private collections
On horseback, by Raja Deen Dayal, c. 1903
Full military dress uniform with medals
With his horse, by Raja Deen Dayal
Commander-in-Chief portrait
Formal portrait
Young cavalry officer, by Deen Dayal
Military portrait
Rahmat Manzil, the family mansion
Imperial Service Troops, Coronation 1902
Primary Sources & References
Indian Biographical Dictionary (1915)
"Beg, Colonel Nawab Mahomed Ali-Afsur-ul-Mulk Bahadur" — Wikisource
Server-ul-Mulk, Nawab (1931)
My Life: Being the Autobiography of Nawab Server-Ul-Mulk Bahadur — Internet Archive
Jung, Sarbuland (1909-1910)
A Journey to Mecca and London: The Travels of an Indian Muslim Woman — Indiana University Press
Contractor, Farzana
"A Royal Repast" — UpperCrust India Magazine
Bawa, V.K. (1992)
The Last Nizam: The Life and Times of Mir Osman Ali Khan
Wikipedia
Muhammad Ali Beg — Comprehensive biographical entry
Internet Archive
Swanneh Afsari — Autobiography of Sir Afsar-ul-Mulk (Urdu)
The Deccan Archive
"Hyderabad at the Imperial Durbars"
Facebook Royal Archives
Hon. Maj-Genl. Nawab Bahadur Sir Afsar-i-Jang...
Geni.com
Major General Nawab Khusru Jung Bahadur — Genealogical record