Princess Durru Shehvar of the Ottoman Empire (b. 1914)

Durru Shehvar Durdana Begum Sahiba: A Last Ottoman Princess and Princess of Berar

Durru Shehvar Durdana Begum Sahiba, officially recognized as the Princess of Berar, was an esteemed Ottoman princess whose life spanned from January 16, 1914, to February 7, 2006. Born as Hatice Hayriye Ayşe Dürrüşehvar Sultan (Ottoman Turkish: خدیجه خیریه عائشه درشهوار سلطان), she embodied a unique connection between the declining grandeur of the Ottoman Empire and the princely states of India.

The Last Caliph's Daughter: Her Ottoman Lineage

Princess Durru Shehvar held a profoundly significant position as the only daughter of Abdulmejid II. Abdulmejid II was not only the last heir apparent to the illustrious Ottoman Imperial throne but also held the pivotal spiritual title as the last Caliph of the Ottoman Caliphate. The Ottoman Sultanate was abolished in November 1922, marking the end of a six-century-long imperial rule. Subsequently, the Ottoman Caliphate, a religious institution that had existed for centuries and was then held by Abdulmejid II, was formally abolished on March 3, 1924, by the newly established Grand National Assembly of Turkey. This momentous event led to the exile of the entire Ottoman Imperial family, including the young Princess Durru Shehvar, from Turkey.

From Ottoman Splendour to Indian Royalty: The Princess of Berar

Her designation as the Princess of Berar stems from her marriage on November 12, 1931, to Prince Azam Jah, the eldest son and heir apparent of Mir Osman Ali Khan, Asaf Jah VII. Mir Osman Ali Khan was famously the seventh and last ruling Nizam of Hyderabad, one of the wealthiest and most influential princely states in British India. This matrimonial alliance united two of the most significant Muslim dynasties of the time, placing Durru Shehvar at the heart of Indian royalty. During her life in Hyderabad, she was celebrated for her elegance, intellect, and active engagement in social welfare and educational initiatives, establishing herself as a respected figure who bridged cultures and traditions.

Frequently Asked Questions about Durru Shehvar Durdana Begum Sahiba

Who was Durru Shehvar Durdana Begum Sahiba?

Durru Shehvar Durdana Begum Sahiba, born Hatice Hayriye Ayşe Dürrüşehvar Sultan, was an Ottoman princess and later the Princess of Berar through marriage. She was a prominent figure known for her royal lineage and later her influence in Hyderabad.

What was her connection to the Ottoman Empire?

She was the only daughter of Abdulmejid II, who served as the last heir apparent to the Ottoman Imperial throne and the last Caliph of the Ottoman Caliphate before its abolition in 1924.

Why was she known as the Princess of Berar?

She acquired the title Princess of Berar after marrying Prince Azam Jah, the eldest son and heir apparent of the seventh and last Nizam of Hyderabad, Mir Osman Ali Khan.

When did Princess Durru Shehvar live?

She was born on January 16, 1914, and passed away on February 7, 2006, living for 92 years.