Chapter 12: Nizam of Hyderabad 1
In his previous life, he had always wanted to see the Rajwada palace, the majestic residence of the Holkars, the rulers of Indore. He had read about its history, its architecture, its glory and its tragedy. He had seen pictures of its seven-storey façade, its wooden gate, its bastions and its courtyards. He had been walking through its halls, admiring its paintings, sculptures and chandeliers.
He was awestruck by the sight of the palace. It was more beautiful and grand than he had imagined. He followed the guides offered to him by Maharaj Shivaji, who explained the history and significance of each part of the palace. He listened attentively, and asked questions whenever he could
But Raj was restless. He had been living in Indore for the past three months, ever since his father, the Nizam of Hyderabad, had banished him from his court. Raj had found refuge in the court of Maharaja Shivaji Rao Holkar, the ruler of Indore, who had welcomed him as a guest and a friend. Raj had learned to speak Marathi and Hindi, and had adapted to the culture and customs of the Maratha kingdom. He had also become a skilled warrior and a diplomat, and had earned the respect and admiration of the Indore nobility.
But Raj was not happy. He longed for his family(father, brother and uncle Salar), homeland, for his rightful place in Hyderabad. He hated his father for not understanding and rejecting him, and he hated his half-brothers for plotting against him. He dreamed of one day returning to Hyderabad and claiming his throne, with the help of his allies and supporters. Executing his most secret plans in motion, that even his closest uncle Salar didn't know. He also dreams of how he would face his father who loved him and how he will deals with his half-brothers after victory.
One of his allies was Krishnaraja Wadiyar IV, the ruler of Mysore, who had been fighting against the British and their allies for decades. Krishnaraja Wadiyar IV had recognized Raj as the true Nizam of Hyderabad and had offered him his friendship and assistance. Raj had met Maharaj Krishnaraja several times and had been impressed by his courage and intelligence. As Maharaj Krishnaraja sees the potential of Prince Raj, he had also promised to marry his only daughters, princess Kaveri Devi to him and Princess Godavari to his elder brother Rahul, as a sign of their alliance.
Another ally was Rama Varma, the ruler of Cochin, who had also been resisting the British and their allies. Rama Varma had been a friend of Raj's uncle Salar. Rama Varma had sent Raj a letter, inviting him to visit Cochin and to discuss their plans for the future.
Raj had decided to accept Rama Varma's invitation, and had obtained the permission of Maharaja Holkar to leave Indore. He had packed his belongings, and had prepared his horse and his escort. He was ready to embark on his journey, which he hoped would bring him closer to his destiny.
He mounted his horse, a black stallion named Sultan, and looked at the palace of Indore for the last time. The white marble structure gleamed in the morning sun, surrounded by lush gardens and fountains. He had spent many happy hours there, learning from Maharaja Holkar, playing chess with his friend Raghunath, and listening to the music and poetry of the Maratha court. He felt a pang of gratitude and sadness, as he bid farewell to his host and his friends. "Thank you, Maharaja, for your hospitality and generosity. You have been like an elder brother to me," he said, bowing respectfully. "And you, Raghunath, you have been like a brother to me. I will miss you, my friend." He hugged his friend. "I will miss you too, Raj. But I know you have a destiny to fulfill. You are the true Nizam of Hyderabad, and you will reclaim your throne. I pray for your success and safety."
He then turned his horse, and rode out of the city, followed by his escort.
He did not know that his journey would be full of dangers and surprises, and that he would face many enemies and challenges along the way. He did not know that his fate was intertwined with the fate of India, and that he would play a crucial role in the history of his country.
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