10-4: The Nizam

Nizam-ul-Mulk, also known as Asaf Jah I, rose to prominence as a skilled administrator and military commander under the Mughal Empire before founding the Hyderabad State in 1724. Disillusioned by the weakening Mughal central authority, he established an independent dominion in the Deccan, leveraging his strategic acumen and strong support among local elites.

10-3: The Afghan

Ahmad Shah Durrani, also known as the “Father of Modern Afghanistan,” rose to power in 1747 after uniting various Afghan tribes following the collapse of the Persian Safavid Empire. As the founder of the Durrani Empire, he leveraged his military prowess and strategic alliances to expand his rule across Afghanistan, parts of modern-day Pakistan, and northern India.