Azmet Jah claims succession as Ninth Nizam amid legal tussles

Hyderabad: Prince Azmet Jah has publicly asserted his position as the ninth titular Nizam of Hyderabad, two years after the death of his father, Prince Mukarram Jah Bahadur. In a notice on July 5, Azmet Jah declared himself the rightful successor, sharing photographs of himself on the royal gaddi at Chowmahalla Palace.

The notice states that the Asaf Jahi Dynasty has a clear tradition. They follow the law of primogeniture, which means they anoint the eldest male descendant as the family head for all ceremonial and traditional purposes.

In keeping with this tradition, successions to the Gaddi (Taqht) have been followed for generations. After Walashan Mukarram Jah Bahadur passed away on 14.01.2023, his eldest son, Walashan Azmet Jah Bahadur, was named his successor. He was ceremonially declared the IX Nizam and the IX Head of the Asaf Jahi Dynasty. This formal event took place at Khilwath Mubarak, Chowmahalla Palace, on 20.01.2023, following family traditions.

The delayed claim has raised eyebrows, with observers speculating it may be linked to legal challenges. Sikandar Jah, his half-brother, claims Mukarram Jah’s huge estate. This includes palaces such as Chowmahalla and Falaknuma. Another contender, Raunaq Yar Khan, backed by some Nizam descendants, also claims the title.  

The succession dispute echoes past legal battles-Princess Ahmad Unnisa, daughter of the seventh Nizam, had previously challenged Mukarram Jah’s legitimacy, winning in court before an out-of-court settlement. With multiple claimants and high-value properties at stake, Hyderabad’s royal legacy faces fresh turmoil. Reports suggests legal fireworks are expected as Azmet Jah’s declaration reignites the decades-old succession debate.