Bhopal history

Foundation and First Mentions

The history of Bhopal is rooted in the 11th century, when it is believed that King Bhoj of the Paramara dynasty established a settlement named Bhojpal on this site. He is credited with creating the famous Upper Lake. However, the modern city of Bhopal was founded in the early 18th century by the Afghan soldier of fortune Dost Mohammad Khan. In the 1720s, he transformed a small village into a fortified city, laying the foundation of the fort in 1723 and establishing the independent princely state of Bhopal.

Key Factors of Establishment

The development of the city was defined by several important factors:

• Strategic Location: Situated on the Malwa plateau, the city enjoyed a distinct geographical advantage. The presence of large man-made lakes played a key role in the life of the region.
• Political Power: The principality founded by Dost Mohammad Khan became the second-largest Muslim state in pre-colonial India. A unique chapter in Bhopal's history is the period of over a century (from 1819 to 1926) when the state was ruled by four generations of female sovereigns, known as the Begums.
• Trade and Defence: Initially, Bhopal developed as a fortress city, which ensured security and contributed to its rise as an important centre of power in central India.

Early Cultural and Economic Features

In the early period of its history, Bhopal acquired characteristics that define its appearance even today:

• Architectural Heritage: Influenced by the founder and his descendants, a distinct architectural style emerged in the city with strong Pashtun and Islamic influences. During the reign of the Begums, iconic structures were built, including mosques, palaces, and infrastructure projects such as the railway.
• Cultural Synthesis: The city became a hub where Hindu and Muslim traditions were closely intertwined, which was reflected in the culture, art, and daily life of its inhabitants.
• Economic Development: In the 19th century, the ruling Begums paid great attention to infrastructure development, which contributed to the economic growth of the principality and transformed Bhopal into a prosperous capital city.

Key Dates in Bhopal's History

• 11th Century — Foundation of the settlement Bhojpal by King Bhoj of the Paramara dynasty, who also created the famous Upper Lake.
• 1723 — Afghan nobleman Dost Mohammad Khan lays the foundation of the modern fortress city, establishing the independent princely state of Bhopal.
• 1737 — In the Battle of Bhopal, Maratha forces defeat the army of the Nizam of Hyderabad and the Mughals, establishing control over the region.
• 1819–1926 — The unique "Age of the Begums" begins, during which four generations of female rulers governed the principality for over a hundred years.
• Late 19th Century — During the reign of Shah Jahan Begum, construction begins on the Taj-ul-Masajid, one of the largest mosques in Asia.
• 1909 — The Minto Hall palace is founded by order of Begum Kaikhusrau Jahan in honour of Lord Minto's visit.
• 1949 — Nawab Hamidullah Khan signs the agreement for the accession of the princely state of Bhopal into the Indian Union.
• 1956 — Bhopal becomes the capital of the newly formed state of Madhya Pradesh following the reorganization of several central Indian states.
• 1969 — A pesticide manufacturing plant owned by the American company Union Carbide opens in the city.
• 1982 — Bharat Bhavan, a major multi-arts complex designed by architect Charles Correa, is inaugurated.
• 3 December 1984 — The Bhopal Gas Tragedy occurs — a leak of toxic gas from the Union Carbide chemical plant, marking one of the world's worst industrial disasters.
• 2015 — Bhopal is included in the list of the first cities in India to be developed under the national "Smart Cities Mission".

Key Stages of City Development

The history of Bhopal is marked by several turning points that radically changed its appearance and defined its development trajectory for decades to come. These milestones reflect the transformation from a princely capital to a modern industrial and cultural hub.

• The "Golden Age" of the Begums (1819–1926): A unique century-long period in India when the city was ruled by four generations of women. This time was marked by large-scale urban planning: the first railway tracks were laid, and a modern water supply system and postal service were created. The Begums actively patronized the arts and education, laying the foundation for Bhopal's cultural and infrastructural wealth.
• State Capital Status (1956): After joining independent India, Bhopal became the administrative centre of the newly formed state of Madhya Pradesh. This event gave a powerful impulse to the city's growth: the construction of government buildings and residential areas began, leading to a significant increase in population and the expansion of city limits.
• Industrial Boom (1960s): The establishment of major public sector enterprises in the city, particularly the Bharat Heavy Electricals Limited (BHEL) plant, turned Bhopal into one of India's important industrial centres. This contributed to economic growth, the creation of thousands of jobs, and the formation of entire industrial townships.
• Creation of Bharat Bhavan (1982): The opening of this multi-arts complex, designed by the renowned architect Charles Correa, was a landmark cultural event. Bharat Bhavan affirmed Bhopal's status as an important centre for the arts, bringing together theatre, fine art galleries, a library, and venues for musical performances under one roof.
• Industrial Disaster (1984): The toxic gas leak at the Union Carbide chemical plant became one of the largest industrial accidents in human history. This tragedy had devastating long-term consequences for public health, the environment, and the city's reputation, forever inscribing its name in world history as a warning about the dangers of industrial production.
• "Smart City" Programme (from 2015): The inclusion of Bhopal in the national "Smart Cities Mission" has defined the modern vector of its development. The programme aims at modernizing urban infrastructure, implementing digital technologies in city management, improving the transport system, and creating a sustainable urban environment for future generations.

The architectural landscape of Bhopal represents a unique blend of eras and styles, reflecting its rich history. The city can be broadly divided into two parts: the old city with its narrow alleys and monumental structures from the time of the Nawabs and Begums, and New Bhopal — a modern administrative and business centre designed after India gained independence.

The Era of Nawabs and Begums (18th – Early 20th Century)

The foundation of the modern city was laid in the 18th century, but Bhopal reached its architectural zenith in the 19th and early 20th centuries under the rule of female sovereigns — the Begums. During this period, a unique style formed, combining elements of Mughal, Indo-Islamic, and European architecture. Buildings from this era are distinguished by their monumentality, exquisite carvings, and attention to detail.

• Taj-ul-Masajid: Construction of this grand mosque, one of the largest in Asia, was initiated by the order of Shah Jahan Begum. Its pink facade, two massive octagonal minarets, and three marble domes are a striking example of the Mughal architectural revival.
• Shaukat Mahal: This palace, designed by a French architect, presents an eclectic mix of Post-Renaissance and Gothic styles with traditional Indian elements, making it one of the most unusual buildings in the city.
• Gohar Mahal: Located on the banks of the Upper Lake, this palace is a beautiful example of early Indo-Islamic architecture, combining Hindu and Mughal motifs.

Modernism and Contemporary Development (Mid-20th Century – Present)

After Bhopal became the capital of Madhya Pradesh in 1956, a new phase of urban development began. This period is associated with the name of the world-renowned Indian architect Charles Correa, who designed several iconic buildings in the city that defined its modern appearance. His works are vivid examples of modernism adapted to the local climate and cultural context.

• Bharat Bhavan: Opened in 1982, this multi-cultural arts centre is a masterpiece of modern architecture. Correa designed the complex as a series of terraces and sunken courtyards overlooking the lake, creating a harmonious fusion of the building with the landscape.
• Vidhan Bhavan (Legislative Assembly Building): Another landmark project by Charles Correa, completed in 1997. The circular building combines modernist principles with traditional Indian architectural forms, such as the stupa and mandala.

Today's development of Bhopal is guided by the "Smart City" programme, which focuses on creating a sustainable urban environment, modernizing infrastructure, and preserving unique architectural heritage, making the city comfortable for living and attractive for tourists.

The city of Bhopal, the capital of the state of Madhya Pradesh in India, has a rich history in which many outstanding individuals have left their mark. From legendary founders to rulers and modern figures — here are some of the key personalities associated with this city.

Raja Bhoj

Legendary Founder, 11th Century

Considered the founder of the original settlement at the site of Bhopal, which was initially called "Bhojpal". A ruler of the Paramara dynasty, he reigned from 1000 to 1055. He is credited with creating the famous Upper Lake — one of the city's main attractions — by building a dam ("pal"). His name has become an integral part of the city's identity.

Dost Mohammad Khan

Founder of the Princely State of Bhopal, 18th Century

An Afghan mercenary in the service of the Mughals who, following the weakening of the empire, established the independent princely state of Bhopal in 1707. He became the first Nawab of Bhopal and laid the foundation for the dynasty that ruled the region for over two centuries. Under him, the capital was the city of Islamnagar, located near modern Bhopal.

Shah Jahan Begum

Ruler (Nawab Begum), 19th Century

One of the most influential female rulers of Bhopal, who governed the principality in the 19th century. Her reign was marked by significant cultural and architectural development. It was by her order that the construction of the Taj-ul-Masajid began — one of the largest mosques in Asia. She is also the author of a historical work on Bhopal, highlighting her contribution not only to governance but also to preserving the region's history.

Hamidullah Khan

The Last Ruling Nawab, 20th Century

The last sovereign ruler of the princely state of Bhopal, son of Sultan Jahan Begum. He ruled from 1926 and played a key role in the process of Bhopal's accession to the Indian Union in 1949, after which the city became the capital of the state of the same name, and later — the state of Madhya Pradesh. His reign concluded the era of the Nawabs in the city's history.

Shankar Dayal Sharma

9th President of India

A distinguished political figure born in Bhopal. Shankar Dayal Sharma served as the Chief Minister of Bhopal State (1952–1956) and later reached the pinnacle of his political career, becoming the ninth President of India (1992–1997). His journey from a local leader to the head of state is a matter of pride for the city's residents.