Saga of a Kayasth Family- Unique Family of Seven Generations and Its Contribution to Literature

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Foreword It gives me immense pleasure to introduce the book entitled, "Saga of a Kayasth Family: Unique Family of Seven Generations and Its Contribution to Literature", written by Dr Narayan Raj- a descendant of the Saxena family of Hyderabad. He is the Great Grandson of the illustrious Raja Girdhari Pershad and in this book he wrote about the literary contribution of the members of his family for over more than seven generations. It is comparable to the Novel "Roots" written by Alex Hailey, tracing the genealogy of his ancestors who migrated to America. In this book Dr Narayan Raj examined the contents of important literary works of his ancestors and highlighted their contribution to the evolution of composite literary culture in the Hyderabad State. It is a valuable contribution to the literary history of the Asaf Jahi dynasty, as no other scholar so far has undertaken research on the topic relating to the literary works of Kayasthas of Hyderabad. Undoubtedly, it is a welcome addition to the theme of cultural history of the Deccan in general and Nizam's State in particular.

Kayasthas are a distinguished community in India and have traditionally worked as keepers of public records and accounts, writers, and administrators of the State. Historically, they have occupied the highest government offices, served as ministers and advisors of the rulers, and held important administrative positions during the British Raj. In modern times, Kayasthas have also performed multifarious activities and excelled in various professional fields.

Preface The entire period of Asaf Jahi dynasty had undergone tremendous changes. The fall of the Moghul Empire and British impact was felt in every sphere of life, such as, Administration, Politics, Economy and overall growth.

However, the most significant period of growth in Hyderabad was from 1869 - 1948 when Mir Mahbub Ali Khan- Nizam-VI and His Exalted Highness Mir Osman Ali Khan - Nizam-VII (1911-1948) were the rulers of the state. This was the period when there was development in the field of administration, industry, education and communication. Literary activities were at their peak during this period.

Literature got a boost. Though, the literary activities were progressing during the earlier period, but they were at a slow phase.

History is witness to the fact the Kayasths played a valuable role in the promotion of Hindi, Urdu and Persian languages. Many great writers, poets, journalists were born, the pages of History of Literature is full of their contribution. Kayasths like Prem Chand, Mahadevi Varma, Ram Babu Saxena, Raja Girdhari Pershad 'Baqi' etc. contributed to Urdu, Hindi and Persian languages.

Introduction Mir Qamar-ud-Din Chin Qilich Khan Bahadur Fatheh Jung Asaf Jah was a distinguished soldier and a Provincial Governor in the Mughal's reign. He rose to the position thereafter of prominence, which he never lost till his death. Aurangzeb Alamgir recognised his services and offered him high command, such as, Sadar-i-Kul. He continued to serve with distinction in Deccan.

History is witness to the fact that the early decades of the eighteenth century witnessed rapid disintegration of the Mughal Empire. Mir Qamar-ud-Din, son of Ghazi Uddin Firoz Jung, a notable noble in the court of Aurangzeb was the Viceroy of Deccan in 1713 and had the title of Nizam-ul-Mulk Asaf Jah. He was planning various strategies and awaiting the opportunity to establish his rule in Deccan.

He fought with the Governor of Khandesh. Mubariz Khan who had the secret instruction of Delhi Court to oppose Nizam-ul-Mulk by force of arms. The battle was fought at Shakarkheda, Berar in 1724 where Mubariz Khan was defeated and lost his life. This was the beginning of the establishment of the Asaf Jahi dynasty for generations to come. It speaks volumes of Nizam-ul-Mulk's grit and resourcefulness. Instead of adjusting himself to Delhi, he decided to push further to establish his own dynasty. Thus, a new chapter began in the history of Deccan.

**Contents and Sample Pages**