He was the second son of Nizam Ali Khan. His succession was ratified by the Mughal emperor Shah Alam II and his father’s titles were also conferred on him. During his tenure, Second Anglo-Maratha war (1803-1805) took place. British forced him to participate in thatwar on their side to defeat the Marathas. In 1806, on his name, Secunderabad city was constructed. During his reign, the British resident Henry Russell started a separate force called as ‘Russell Brigade’. Later, it was evolved as Hyderabad Contingent. This Brigade involved
unbearable expenditure. To meet this expenditure, he made an agreement with Palmer and Palmer company to take loan. He appointed European officers to improve the administration. They controlled the military and financial administration by getting appointed their favourable persons as the Diwans of the Nizam. However, the kingdom went through a severe financial crisis due to mal administration. Sikandar Jah died on 21st May, 1829.