18th century

In the 18th century, Kollapur (in present-day Nagarkurnool district, Telangana) was part of a region undergoing major political changes following the collapse of Mughal authority in the Deccan. The area came under the control of the Asaf Jahi dynasty, also known as the Nizams of Hyderabad, and was integrated into a princely state under their dominion.

? Political Developments in Kollapur – 18th Century

1. Mughal Decline and Rise of the Nizam (early 1700s)

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  The Mughal Empire continued to decline after Aurangzeb’s death (1707).

  
  


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  Nizam-ul-Mulk (Asaf Jah I) was appointed as Mughal Subahdar (governor) of the Deccan but declared independence in 1724, founding the Hyderabad State.

  
  


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  Kollapur became part of the dominions of the Nizam of Hyderabad, ruled as part of the larger Deccan subahs.

  
  

2. Kollapur Samsthan (Estate/Principality)

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  During the 18th century, Kollapur developed into a semi-autonomous feudal estate, known as the Kollapur Samsthanam.

  
  


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  Ruled by a local zamindar or raja (usually from a noble Telugu Kshatriya or Velama family) who paid tribute to the Nizam.

  
  


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  The Kollapur rulers maintained a palace, administered local justice, supported temples, and collected taxes.

  
  

3. Relations with the British and Marathas

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  Although not directly involved in British conflicts, Kollapur was in a region affected by:

  
  
  
  
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    Maratha raids

    
    
  
  
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    Conflicts between the French and British in nearby territories

    
    
  
  
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    The Carnatic Wars and shifting alliances with the Nizam and colonial powers

    
    
  
  
  
  


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  The estate remained loyal to the Nizam, who allied with the British in various treaties.

  
  

? Religion and Society

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  Hinduism remained dominant; rulers patronized Shaivite and Vaishnavite temples.

  
  


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  Telugu culture, temple festivals, and clical music were promoted.

  
  


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  Village panchayats and caste-based councils managed daily social affairs.

  
  

? Economy and Life

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  The Krishna River valley made Kollapur agriculturally rich — rice, jowar, pulses, and cotton were grown.

  
  


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  Irrigation tanks and step wells were maintained or expanded by the Samsthan rulers.

  
  


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  Land was leased under jagirdari and inam systems, and taxes were collected in grain or cash.