Mahidevran

Mother
of Mustafa, Suleyman's son. She lost her power when Hürrem came to the harem.
She never stopped fighting for the affection of Suleyman mostly out of fear for
the safety of her son Mustafa. Conflict between Mahidevran and Hürrem has
further intensified when Suleymans mother died who was partially able to
control their hostility.





Little is known about Mahidevran. Most likely she was born or the Caucasus or
Albania. Suleyman was still a prince of Manise when she gave birth to their
first son in 1515.



When Selim I died, Suleyman came to Istanbul to take over the empire together
with his family.



In harem she had very influential rival Hürrem, who became Suleymans wife and
his favorite mistress. Their rivalry was partially under control while
Suleyman's mother was alive. But after her death, their conflict has increased,
resulting in Mahidevran beating Hürrem. This angered the sultan and he sends
her out of Istanbul to live with his son.



Towards the end of the reign of Suleyman Hürrem accused Mustafa, son of
Mehidevran, of treason. During the war in Persia Suleyman ordered to kill
Mustafa.



Several years after the death of Mustafa, Mahidevran lives in Bursa in poverty.
However after the death of Suleyman, Selim II. gives her a salary. She died
1581.