This is really a pretty intriguing sword, and at this point I am inclined to agree with the South India suggestion. I have not looked into any references yet but I think in "Hindu Arms & Ritual" there are examples of somewhat similar character. This seems a variant reflecting the often seen Ottoman influence which seems to have pervaded so many things culturally in Mughal courts.
As to the 18th century assessment, the blade seems to be of trade blade form of latter part 18th into 19th German forms. These kinds of blades can be seen even later according to Gilkerson ("Boarders Away") as 'cutlass' types.
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