Biography of Balaji Vishwanath:
Balaji Vishwanath, also known as Nana Saheb, was a prominent statesman and military commander in the Maratha Empire during the late 17th century. He served as the first Peshwa (Prime Minister) of the Maratha Kingdom and played a significant role in shaping the political landscape of his time.
Here is a brief biography of Balaji Vishwanath:
Early Life:
Birth: Balaji Vishwanath was born in 1660 in Saswad, a town in present-day Maharashtra, India.
Family Background: He belonged to the Chitpavan Brahmin community, which produced several influential figures in the Maratha administration.
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| Biography of Balaji Vishwanath |
Rise to Power:
Service under Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj: Balaji Vishwanath started his career in the service of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, the founder of the Maratha Empire. He served in various administrative and military capacities.
Role as Peshwa:
Appointment as Peshwa: After the death of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, Balaji Vishwanath served under Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj and later under Chhatrapati Rajaram Maharaj. He was appointed as the first Peshwa of the Maratha Kingdom in 1713 by Chhatrapati Shahu Maharaj, the grandson of Chhatrapati Shivaji.
Contributions and Achievements:
Political Diplomacy: Balaji Vishwanath played a crucial role in negotiating and stabilizing the political situation of the Maratha Empire during a tumultuous period.
Expansion of Maratha Influence: He significantly expanded Maratha territories through diplomatic efforts and military campaigns, ensuring the empire’s dominance in key regions.
Death:
Passing: Balaji Vishwanath passed away in 1720.
Succession: After his death, his son, Baji Rao I, succeeded him as the Peshwa, continuing the legacy of the influential Vishwanath family in the Maratha administration.
Balaji Vishwanath’s tenure as the first Peshwa laid the foundation for the Peshwa era in the Maratha Empire, shaping the future direction of Maratha politics and governance. His contributions are remembered in Indian history for his strategic acumen and political diplomacy during a crucial phase in the Maratha Empire’s development.