Nawab Sadatullah Khan and the English: Tensions Over Madras, 1711–1725

The early 18th century marked a significant period in the interactions between the English East India Company and local Mughal authorities in Madras, characterized by diplomatic negotiations, territorial disputes, and fortification efforts. This blog post explores the complex dynamics of these relations, drawing from historical accounts of the period.

The Construction of Fort St. George

According to chronicler Narayanan, during the rule of Nawab Asaf Jah, the English began constructing Fort St. George in Madras. When informed of this, the Nawab ordered the local Faujdar to halt the construction. However, the Faujdar, favorably disposed toward the English, allowed the work to continue. This early instance highlights the pragmatic alliances and local autonomy that often shaped English-Mughal relations.

Disputes Over the Five New Villages

A significant point of contention arose over the possession of the Five New Villages—Tiruvottiyur, Nungambakam, Vyasarpadi, Kathiwakam, and Sattangadu—granted to the English by Nawab Daud Khan in 1708. During Governor Harrison’s tenure (1711–1717), Nawab Sadatullah Khan, then Diwan of the Subah of Arcot, objected to the confirmation of this grant. Sadatullah Khan not only challenged the legal validity of the grant but also temporarily resumed possession of these villages in 1711. He further demanded the return of three older villages—Egmore, Purasawakam, and Tondiarpet—previously granted to the English.

Through prolonged negotiations led by Sunka Rama, the Company’s chief merchant, an amicable resolution was reached, and the demand for the three older villages was dropped. In 1717, John Surman’s embassy to Emperor Farrukh Siyar secured three separate farmans, one of which confirmed English privileges in Madras, including the restoration of the Five New Villages.

Continued Tensions and Military Clashes

Under Governor Collet, local Mughal officials delayed the return of the Five New Villages. Despite initial English occupation, Nawab Sadatullah Khan sent troops to expel them, leading to an open confrontation at Tiruvottiyur. Although his troops were repelled, Sadatullah Khan persisted, claiming in 1721–22 that the villages were part of the jaghir of his overlord, the Nizam.

Governor Elwick, however, stood firm, citing the Mughal Emperor’s farman as evidence of English rights. When an English embassy, including Rayasam Papaiya and Sunka Rama, was detained by Sadatullah Khan at San Thome, Elwick’s strong protest forced the Nawab to relent, securing the villages for the English without further dispute.

Fortification and Expansion Under Governor Macrae

During Governor Macrae’s administration (1725–1730), significant efforts were made to strengthen Madras’s defenses. The fortifications of White Town were enhanced, the ramparts of Old Black Town repaired, the Egmore Redoubt reinforced, and a new powder factory established. These developments, which likely drew objections from the Nizam, were permitted by Nawab Sadatullah Khan, reflecting his passive stance toward English expansion.

The relations between the English and Mughal authorities in Madras during this period were marked by a delicate balance of diplomacy, negotiation, and occasional conflict. The English leveraged imperial farmans, local alliances, and strategic persistence to secure and expand their foothold in Madras, while local Mughal officials navigated their own interests and obligations to higher authorities. These interactions laid the foundation for the English East India Company’s growing influence in the region.