Wajid Ali Shah came to power on Feb 14, 1847 AD. (30 July 1822 – 1 September 1887)British Govt. Now started framing different charges of mismanagement, public unrest and inefficient ruler against Wajid Ali Shah. Lord Harding warned him on Nov’ 1847 AD, if there is no improvement in the administration, Company will take over the charge of Awadh in her hand. Col. Sluman was sent as Resident specially for this work. In the words of Samual Lucas “…The character of his report was determined for him. He professed to examine but he was under orders to sentence, he pretended to try, but he was instructed to simply condemn.”
British Govt. Started even interfering in the internal Palace affairs. All the appointments were done by the resident. After 9 years on Feb 4, 1856 AD Resident General Outram read out the orders that you are no more a king and company has taken over the full charge of Awadh.
Wajid Ali Shah was beloved and respected by his subjects, for the highest to the lowest, from the Raja to the Raiyat and this the more so as he has ever discharged the duties of his high office with justice tempered by mercy. Music and drama was also encouraged in his reign. King himself has written about 50 books. As a poet his title was “Akhtar”. Despite several obstacles Awadh progressed in trade, industry, Urdu literature, whose foundation was put by his forefathers 138 years ago.