Who was the powerful governor of Bengal?

 Murshid Quli Khan

Explanation:

• Background: Murshid Quli Khan, originally born as Surya Narayan Mishra in the Deccan Plateau, was sold to a Mughal nobleman who converted him to Islam and renamed him. He began his career in Bengal as the provincial diwan (revenue officer) and eventually became the nawab (governor) of Bengal.
• Governorship: In 1717, Mughal Emperor Farrukhsiyar appointed Murshid Quli Khan as the Subahdar (governor) of Bengal, granting him both administrative and revenue control. He declared himself the Nawab of Bengal, becoming the first independent nawab of the province.
• Administrative Reforms: Murshid Quli Khan implemented significant revenue reforms, replacing the Mughal jagirdari system with the mal jasmani system, which was similar to France's fermiers generals. He took security bonds from contractors (ijardaars) who collected land revenue, leading to the emergence of zamindars. He also continued sending a substantial portion of Bengal's revenue to the declining Mughal Empire, showcasing his loyalty while maintaining autonomy.
• Capital Relocation: To strengthen administrative efficiency, he transferred the capital from Dhaka to a new city named after himself, Murshidabad, which became a prominent center of trade and culture under his rule.
• Legacy: Murshid Quli Khan's tenure laid the foundation for a quasi-independent Bengal, with a centralized administration and a flourishing economy. His policies and governance style influenced the region's subsequent history, making him a pivotal figure in Bengal's transition from Mughal rule to autonomous governance.