The Nawabs of Bengal played a crucial role in shaping the political and economic history of 18th-century India. Beginning with Murshid Quli Khan, who established an autonomous Bengal under Mughal rule, the lineage continued until the decline of independent Nawabi power after the Battle of Plassey (1757). This era marked Bengal’s transition from regional prosperity to colonial dominance under the British East India Company.

Period of Rule Nawab of Bengal Major Events / Key Facts
1717–1727 Murshid Quli Khan Appointed as the first Nawab of Bengal by Mughal Emperor Farrukhsiyar; transferred capital from Dacca to Murshidabad; introduced revenue reforms; established effective provincial autonomy.
1727–1739 Shuja-ud-Din Muhammad Khan Son-in-law of Murshid Quli Khan; maintained prosperity; Bengal continued to flourish economically and culturally.
1739–1740 Sarfaraz Khan Son of Shuja-ud-Din; ruled briefly; defeated and killed by Alivardi Khan in the Battle of Giria (1740).
1740–1756 Alivardi Khan Took control after defeating Sarfaraz Khan; repelled repeated Maratha invasions (Bargi raids); maintained Bengal’s independence; focused on administration and defense.
1756–1757 Siraj-ud-Daulah Grandson of Alivardi Khan; faced internal betrayal and British aggression; defeated in the Battle of Plassey (1757) by Robert Clive; end of independent Nawabi rule in Bengal.
1757–1760 Mir Jafar Installed by the British after Plassey; puppet ruler; British gained control over Bengal’s finances and policies.
1760–1763 Mir Qasim Son-in-law of Mir Jafar; attempted to regain independence; shifted capital to Munger; introduced reforms; defeated in Battle of Buxar (1764).
1763–1765 Mir Jafar (Restored) Reinstalled by British after Mir Qasim’s defeat; ruled under East India Company’s dominance.
1765–1770 (Titular) Najm-ud-Daulah Son of Mir Jafar; British gained Diwani rights (1765) under Treaty of Allahabad; Nawabs became titular heads only.
1770–1793 (Titular) Mubarak-ud-Daulah and Successors Nawabi became symbolic under British rule; real power shifted completely to East India Company.