Accession and installation, 1901
Sultan Jahan Begum was the only surviving child of Shah Jehan Begum; an elder sister, also a daughter, "having died in 1865." She was "aged eleven years" when her father died in June 1867, and was recognized as heir when her mother was installed as Ruler in November 1868.
Her mother died on 28 Safar 1319 AH. The Political Agent wrote to the Minister that the Government of India had "'recognized the right of Nawab Sultan Jahan Begam to become the Ruler of Bhopal,'" and directed him to conduct her to the Taj Mahal palace to assume control of the State. In her own words: "At noon, on the 28th of Safar, 1319 A.H., my reign may be said to have commenced."
Her formal installation took place at a durbar at the Sadar Manzil palace on 17 Rabi-ul-awwal 1319 AH (4 July 1901), presided over by Colonel Meade, Agent to the Governor-General, who told her: "Your Highness is now installed upon the masnad of your ancestors." The Viceroy had written to her on 28 June 1901 offering "my congratulations on your accession to the masnad of Bhopal." In her reply at the durbar she said: "in recognition of my rights, have advanced me to the high position which I now hold as ruler of this State."