A century ago, on January 12, 1925, a brutal murder occurred in Bombay (now Mumbai), colonial India, sending shockwaves across the country and beyond. Abdul Kadir Bawla, a 25-year-old textile businessman and municipal official, was shot dead, while his companion, Mumtaz Begum, a 22-year-old courtesan, was slashed in the face. This case became one of the most sensational crimes committed in British India, captivating the nation and revealing the dark underbelly of colonial society.

The subsequent investigation uncovered a complex web of intrigue and deception involving the princely state of Indore and its Hindu king, Maharaja Tukoji Rao Holkar III. Mumtaz Begum had escaped from the Maharaja's harem and was living with Bawla in Bombay. The Maharaja's representatives threatened Bawla, demanding he return Mumtaz Begum, which he refused to do. The highly publicized trial featured top lawyers, including Muhammad Ali Jinnah, who defended the accused. Ultimately, the court sentenced three men to death and three to life imprisonment, but it did not hold the Maharaja accountable.

The case placed the British government in a difficult position, exposing the close ties between colonial authorities and the princely states. The government faced pressure from various factions, including Bawla's community and Indian lawmakers, to take action against the Maharaja. Eventually, the British government forced the Maharaja to abdicate, citing his alleged connection to the murder. This case marked a significant turning point in the relationship between British colonial authorities and the princely states, illustrating the limits of their power and influence.

The sensational murder case also profoundly impacted the lives of those involved. Mumtaz Begum, who found herself at the center of the storm, eventually moved to the United States, where she faded into obscurity. This case remains a fascinating footnote in Indian history, serving as a reminder of the complex and often murky world of colonial India. As author Dhaval Kulkarni notes, "The case went beyond the usual murder mystery as it involved a wealthy young tycoon, a slighted king, and a beautiful woman."