Page:The Aristocracy of Southern India.djvu/15



Banganapalli, one of the Native States under the control of the Governor of Madras, is ruled by a Nawab whose claims to eminence are founded not upon any daring adventure or extraordinary learning, hit upon the successful administration of his State, his steadfast loyalty to the British Crown, his increasing benificence to his subjects and his enlightened co-operation in movements for public good. Naturally noble-minded, his pursuits are just, his views are formed after mature reflection, and he is incapable of sentiments derogatory to the character of impartial and upright men. These exemplary qualities are just those which leave their lasting mark on the State, and entitle the ruler to the heartfelt gratitude and intelligent admiration of the people. There is no denying the fact that the State of Banganapalli has a very bright future before it, and it is with great pleasure that we give the first place in this series to a biography of His Highness the Nawab Saiyid Fateh Ali Khan Bahadur, the present ruler of Banganapalli.

The area of Banganapalli is about 275 square miles, and the population according to the Census of 1901, is 32,279. There are 13 Sub-Jaghirs in the State, and the annual income including them is a little more than 2½ lakhs of Eupees.