The Nawab of Arcot was a title held by the rulers of the Arcot region in southern India, particularly during the 18th and 19th centuries. The Nawabs were originally appointed by the Mughal Empire and later became semi-autonomous leaders under British colonial rule. They played a significant role in the politics and culture of the region, often engaging in alliances and conflicts with other local powers. The most notable Nawab was Muhammad Ali Wallajah, who ruled from 1749 to 1795. Under his leadership, the Nawab's court became a center for art and culture, attracting poets and scholars. The title eventually became largely ceremonial as British influence grew, leading to the formal abolition of the Nawab's powers in the 19th century.