Early Years
Siraj was born to Zain ud-Din Ahmed Khan (Mirza Muhammad Hashim) and Amina begum in 1733, and soon after his birth, Siraj's maternal grandfather, Alivardi Khan was appointed as the Deputy Governor of Bihar. Amina Begum was the youngest daughter of Nawab Ali Vardi Khan. Since Ali Vardi had no son, Siraj, as his grandson, became very close to him and since his childhood was seen by many as Alivardi's successor. Accordingly, he was raised at the Nawab's palace with all necessary education and training suitable for a future Nawab. Young Siraj also accompanied Alivardi in his military ventures against the Marathas in 1746. So, Siraj was regarded as the "fortune child" of the family. Since, Siraj's birth he was loved by his grandfather, with a special affection towards Siraj.
In May 1752, Alivardi Khan declared Siraj as his successor. During the last years of Alivardi Khan's reign the death of some family members affected Alivardi both mentally and physically. Alivardi Khan died of dropsy on April 9, 1756 at the age of eighty or above. Before dying Alivardi advised Siraj to secure the well being of his province by removing all evils and disorders. Luke Scraton (One of the directors of the British East India Company from 1765-1768) says that Siraj swore on the Quran at Alivardi's death bed that after that in future he would never touch any intoxicating liquor, and he kept the promise ever after. Siraj also faced any enemies during his short reign (April 1756 - July 1757) both from his family and outside as well.
During Alivardi Khan's reign Siraj also built the Hirajheel (Diamond Lake)and the Hirajheel Palace, which is also known as the "Mansurganj" Palace. He built it as he was very jealous of Ghaseti Begum's (his maternal aunt's) Motijheel (Pearl Lake) and the Motijheel Palace.
Read more about this topic: Siraj Ud-Daulah
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