Golconda’s ‘Fateh Rehbar’ cannon became the witness when the Sultanate was destroyed by deception

Fateh Rehbar cannon is still standing on the Petla Burj of Golconda Fort as a silent witness of that decisive battle. It not only symbolizes the military might of the Qutb Shahi dynasty but also commemorates the strategic betrayal and final conflict that brought an end to a glorious sultanate. This cannon symbolizes the historical turning point when the dominance of the Mughals was completely established over the Deccan. Fateh Rehbar cannon was manufactured in 1588 AD. This cannon was made about a century before the battle of 1687 and it played an important role in that war.

According to historian Zahid Sarkar, the fall of the Golconda fort in 1687, which was known for its invincible reputation, was not just the result of a war but a long story of political deception and a siege.

due to stress
The Qutb Shahi rulers of Golconda were Shia Muslims while Aurangzeb was a staunch Sunni ruler. This religious difference was a constant cause of tension. The biggest reason was that Tana Shah, through his Prime Minister Madanna, employed Tanaji, the former commander of Maratha ruler Shivaji and a powerful feudal lord. Aurangzeb feared that this Hindu-Shia alliance could become a big threat to him.

Siege and battle (1687)
Tired of these reasons, Aurangzeb attacked Golconda with his huge Mughal army in 1687. Despite siege for months, the Mughal army failed to break the defense of the fort. The cannons of the fort were enough to stop any attack.

role of fateh rahbar cannon
This is where the role of Fateh Rehbar Cannon became important. This huge cannon, which weighed approximately 17 tons, was positioned on the Petla Burj of the fort. It was minted by the Persian cannoneer Mohammad bin Hussain Rahmani in 1588 during the reign of Mohammad Quli Qutb Shah. Due to its high position, this cannon could fire shells at the Mughal army from far away in the field. In the initial battle it played an important role in thwarting many attacks of the Mughals.

end of cushion
Once the main gate of the fort was opened, the Mughal army attacked and captured Golconda. The last Qutb Shahi ruler Abul Hasan Tana Shah was arrested. Instead of killing him, Aurangzeb imprisoned him in the fort of Daulatabad where he died after about 12 years in 1699.