MOSLEM WOMEN RULERS

Waikato Times, Volume 125, Issue 20911, 16 September 1939, Page 13 (Supplement)

MOSLEM WOMEN RULERS

ARE FRIENDS TO BRITAIN

THOSE WHO contend that only occasional, specially-endowed women are capable of successful rule, would do well to study to history of Bhopal, a Moslem principality in Central India. From 1844 to 1926 this State was governed by women—four altogether. All proved competent rulers, the most notable being the occupant of the throne at the time of the Indian Mutiny (1857-58), and Sultan Jahan Begum, the last of the quartet. The former gave valuable help in the J suppression of the rebellion in the districts adjacent to her territories, and as a reward was made one of the original members of an order of knighthood newly

founded by Queen Victoria, membership of which was to be confined to those who had rendered distinguished service in India—the now-famous Star of India. Jahan Begum voluntarily handed over the government of the State to her son in 1926, after ruling for nearly a quarter of a century. She proved herself a ruler of rare strength of character, sagacity and enlightenment, re-organising the administration, devoting much attention to public health, fostering education, and instituting important social reforms. Bhopal seems certain again to have a woman at the helm before many years have passed, for the present Sovereign has no male children-