The Cambridge History of India, Vol. I: Ancient India v1.c15.81

v1.c15.81

South-eastward of Poona, but still on the plateau country, is Hyderābād, the largest native state in India. It is ruled under British suzerainty by the Nizām. The majority of the Nizām's subjects speak Telegu and are of Hindu faith, but the Nizām is a Muhammadan. Near his capital, Hyderābād, is Golconda Fort, rising above the open plateau with flat top and cliff sides. The name of Golconda has become proverbial for immensity of wealth. Formerly it was the Indian centre of diamond cutting and polishing.