The Legacy of Awadh: Pension Distribution to Descendants of Royal Families
Introduction: A Glimpse into History
In the heart of Uttar Pradesh lies Hussainabad, where 90-year-old Faiyaz Ali Khan embarks on a journey to the Picture Gallery, a relic from the 19th century. His purpose? To receive his wasika, a royal pension rooted in a history that intertwines the fate of the Awadh kingdom and the British East India Company.
Faiyaz Ali Khan stands in front of the Bara Imambara in Lucknow.
Understanding the Wasika: A Financial Token of Nobility
What is a Wasika?
Derived from the Persian term for a written agreement, wasika refers to a pension granted to descendants of the erstwhile Awadh royal family. The Awadh region, previously governed by the semi-autonomous nawabs, saw its sovereignty vanish when the British annexed it in 1856. Although India no longer embraces monarchies, some former royal families maintain this connection through pensions, albeit diminished in amount and significance.
Historical Context of the Wasika
Historian Roshan Taqui describes how, during the early 1800s, certain Awadh royals lent significant sums to the East India Company, with the understanding that their families would receive pensions from the interest accrued. These loans were perpetual, ensuring that the principal amount remained untouched while interest payments became a lifeline for many.
The Collection Ritual: A Modern-Day Tradition
Monthly Observance of Royal Payments
Standing before the Picture Gallery, Faiyaz Ali Khan reminisces about the 13-month wait for his meager pension. “We’ve been receiving this wasika since the time of our great-grandparents,” he notes, humorously adding that even the small sum—just nine rupees and 70 paise—represents a connection to a noble past.
The Modern Landscape of Wasika Recipients
Today, approximately 1,200 individuals known as wasikedars still collect these payments. The pensions are not fixed and diminish with each generation. If one ancestor received 100 rupees, subsequent generations would see their individual shares drastically reduced.
Bahu Begum was instrumental in establishing the framework for these pensions.
The Inception of Wasika Payments
The story of wasika dates back to 1817 when Bahu Begum, associated with Nawab Shuja-ud-Daula, extended a loan of 40 million rupees to the East India Company. This propelled the establishment of pensions for her kin and associates.
The Mechanics of Payment: How It Works Today
Banking and Distribution Changes
After India’s independence in 1947, part of Bahu Begum’s original loan was deposited into a bank. Currently, pensions are paid from interest accrued on approximately 2.6 million rupees in local bank deposits. Payments are disbursed through two main offices in the Picture Gallery—the Hussainabad Trust and the Uttar Pradesh government’s wasika office.
The Dwindling Value of Wasika
Critics argue that these royal pensions reflect outdated privileges. In contrast, supporters view them as symbolic ties to the rich historical legacy of the Awadh rulers. Shahid Ali Khan, another recipient, underscores that the value of wasika goes beyond mere currency: “It’s our identity, worth more than millions.”
Faiyaz Ali Khan and Shikoh Azad at the Hussainabad Trust Office.
Call for Revisions
Many recipients advocate for adjustments to align these pensions with current interest rates, emphasizing the stark contrast with today’s banking environment. “It’s unfortunate I spend 500 rupees on transport for a mere nine rupees and 70 paise,” laments Faiyaz’s son.
Cultural Shifts: The Past vs. Present
A Festival Atmosphere Reduced to Routine
Collecting the wasika was once a festive occasion, reminiscent of a fair with local vendors and merry atmosphere. Faiyaz Ali Khan recalls the joy surrounding the collection of pensions: “There were food stalls and hundreds of recipients gathered at the Picture Gallery.” Today, that vibrant tradition feels like a distant memory.
The Legacy of Wasika: More Than Just Money
As the narrative unfolds, it’s clear that the wasika is not merely a monetary benefit but a connection to a time when nobility thrived. Many beneficiaries argue for fair remuneration reflective of the historical context, highlighting the dwindling charm of what was once a significant aspect of royal life.
Conclusion: The Future of Wasika
As the dialogue around these pensions continues, both advocates and critics acknowledge that the wasika system encapsulates an essential link to India’s complex past. The future of this tradition remains uncertain, but for many recipients, the wasika is a cherished fragment of their heritage, woven intricately into the fabric of their identity.
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