Peshwa Bajirao Ballal, Part 2: Maratha Supremacy in India

Shaniwarwada; Image Source: NishantAChavan, CC BY-SA 3.0

On 28th April 1740, Peshwa Bajirao I passed away, leaving behind a vast empire and legacy. The Indian government released a stamp in 2004 commemorating him. What sets him apart from the other great leaders in Indian history?

In Part 1, we traced the first 10 years of Bajirao Ballal’s career as Peshwa or Prime Minister of the Maratha Empire. Now, we take a look at how he established Maratha supremacy in India, and study his personality and legacy.

Stamp of Peshwa Bajirao, by Indian Government
Stamp of Peshwa Bajirao, by Indian Government; Image Source

Peshwa Bajirao I- A Masterful Personality

Invoking the Mahabharat story where Arjun chose Lord Krishna alone for his side rather than his entire army, Chhatrapati Shahu Maharaj was often known to say, “If I had a choice between an army and Bajirao, I’d choose Bajirao!” Soldiers from all over the Deccan also preferred to serve him, and followed him anywhere with the utmost faith. Why?

Social Policies and Lifestyle

Although from a traditional Brahmin family, Bajirao I never discriminated among his people. He chose and promoted people based on merit, and many of his lieutenants came from humble backgrounds. Malharrao Holkar was a mercenary from the Dhangar (shepherd) caste, Ranoji Shinde was a Maratha Kunbi (farmer) and served as the Peshwa’s valet, Govindpant Kher Bundele was a personal assistant, Govind and Ramchandra Patwardhan were sons of a respected but poor Pandit. Under Bajirao’s patronage, they all rose to great heights as generals and noblemen.

The Peshwa also lived the same kind of life as his soldiers; sharing in their troubles and hardships without special privileges. He even ate meat and sat in the same ‘pangat’ with them, no matter their caste or class. Hence, he became the most beloved military leader of his time, and led his loyal troops to victory over many enemies!

The enemies defeated by Marathas under Peshwa Bajirao: Mughals, Nizam, British, Siddi, and Portuguese
The enemies defeated by Marathas under Peshwa Bajirao: Mughals, Nizam, British, Siddi, and Portuguese

Discipline and Loyalty

Even Bajirao’s enemies admitted his discipline and readiness for any situation; and the same was instilled in his army. His discipline was only exceeded by his loyalty to the Maratha Empire and Shahu Maharaj. Though he became the most powerful chieftain of his times, he always considered himself the Chhatrapati’s servant, paying him due respect and heeding his advice. He rarely disobeyed the Chhatrapati’s direct command…except once.

The Battle of Dabhoi

The Peshwa and the Senapati had always worked closely in the Pradhan Mandal. However, in 1726, a dispute arose when Chhatrapati Shahu gave the Gujarat administration to Bajirao’s brother Chimaji Appa. Senapati Khanderao Dabhade, who controlled most of Gujarat, protested that it would reduce his prestige and income. When he died in 1728, his son Trimbakrao became the Senapati. At this time, tired of constant battles with the Marathas, the Mughal Subhedar of Gujarat, Raja Abhay Singh approached Chimaji to bring peace to the region, in return for half the revenue.

This provoked the Dabhades. Peshwa Bajirao tried to negotiate peace by offering them half the revenue of Malwa. However, the Nizam of Hyderabad convinced Trimbakrao and his mother Umabai this was the Peshwa’s ploy to steal their territory! Trimbakrao rebelled. The Nizam and Mughals supported him, thrilled at the chance of hurting Bajirao.

Peshwa vs Senapati

Alarmed at the tensions between his two ministers, Shahu Maharaj told Chimaji to hand over Gujarat to Trimbakrao. However, Bajirao knew this could embolden other Sardars to blackmail for their demands. weakening central authority. Hence, while Holkar kept the Nizam and Mughals occupied, Bajirao and Chimaji reached Gujarat and fought the Senapati at Dabhoi. Peshwa Bajirao had given orders not to harm Trimbakrao, but he died of a stray bullet.

Chhatrapati Shahu Maharaj (left) and Peshwa Bajirao I (right)
Chhatrapati Shahu Maharaj (left) and Peshwa Bajirao I (right)

Regretful, Bajirao returned to Satara. The Chhatrapati knew that by allying with the Nizam, Trimbakrao had betrayed the Marathas. He asked Umabai to forgive Bajirao and Chimaji and make peace. The revenue of Gujarat was shared equally between the Senapati and the central government.

Diplomacy with the Nizam

In 1732, Nizam ul-Mulk and Peshwa Bajirao met at Rui Rameshwar to discuss terms. They signed a secret pact to stay out of each other’s way. Why did he make peace with a man who had repeatedly opposed him? The answer reveals both Bajirao’s foresight as well as decision-making ability.

Nizam-ul-Mulk of Hyderabad and Mughal Paatshah Muhammad Shah I

Bajirao knew he could not fight on two fronts forever. He had to decide whether the Marathas should focus on liberating the Deccan from the Nizam, or capturing North India from the Mughals. He knew the Nizam was a cunning, experienced strategist and protected his new territory well. On the other hand, though the Mughals had far greater armies and resources, they were divided and lacked strong leadership. Mughal Emperor Muhammad Shah cared only about luxury and pleasures. Boldly, he decided to focus on Delhi, and establish Marathas as the supreme power!

The Janjira Campaign

The Siddis of Janjira, African-descended Mughal Sardars, had long troubled the Marathas. Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, Peshwa Moropant, and Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj had all fought but failed to capture their island fort. After Chhatrapati Sambhaji’s death, they gained control of much of the Konkan, including former Maratha capital Raigad. Over 44 years, they imposed religious taxes and persecuted Hindus.

In 1733, Chhatrapati Shahu planned a campaign and sent Peshwa Bajirao, Shripatrao Pant Pratinidhi, and Sarkhel Sekhoji Angre. They captured the forts of Tale, Ghosale, Avchitgad, Bankot, Mandangad and Danda Rajpuri. Soon, they recaptured Raigad; and an emotional Shahu regained his childhood home and the Samadhi of Chhatrapati Shivaji!

Soon, the British sent help to the Siddis, and Maratha Admiral Sekhoji died suddenly. These setbacks, along with the Konkan monsoon, made Bajirao withdraw the campaign. However, he succeeded in appointing a new Siddi at Janjira who was favorable to the Marathas. In later years, with Bajirao in the north, the powerful Siddi Sat rebelled. In a fierce battle in 1736, Chimaji Appa killed Siddi Sat and his 1300 men. The Siddis finally became Maratha vassals.

Consolidating Administrative Measures

To focus on Delhi, Bajirao knew it was important to have a strong northern base. Hence, he sent Chimaji Appa and handpicked Sardars to establish a competent administration. The Sardars defeated Sawai Raja Jaisingh at Mandsaur (1732), and Muzaffar Khan at Sironj (1734).

Malwa, the largest Indian province, was divided between Malharrao Holkar at Indore, Ranoji Shinde at Ujjain, and the Pawars at Dhar. Govindpant Kher was appointed to govern the Bundelkhand province and maintain the Bundela alliance, becoming known as Govindpant ‘Bundele’.

We can see the Peshwa’s administrative vision through these measures which brought peace, prosperity, and stability to the newly-won provinces.

Diplomacy in Rajputana

The Mughal court contained two factions. One, led by Wazir Qamruddin Khan and the Rajputs advocated peace with the Marathas. The other, led by Mughal noblemen demanded war. Hence, in 1736, Peshwa Bajirao visited Rajputana to discuss terms.

Portrait of Raja of Jaipur and Maharana of Udaipur; Source: The Era of Bajirao, Dr. Uday Kulkarni

In Udaipur, Maharana Jagat Singh II gave him a grand welcome and led him to a golden throne beside his own. But to everyone’s surprise, Bajirao sat down on the cushioned silver step below it. When asked why, his answer is an excellent example of diplomatic brilliance.

“I am merely a Prime Minister; the Chhatrapati sits on the throne, and my place is at his feet. Moreover, the accompanying throne is of your ancestor Maharana Pratap! The Sisodias never accepted the Mughals as their masters, so you are worthy of the same status as the Chhatrapati.”

Overjoyed, Jagat Singh sat down next to him. Paying the Peshwa a grand tribute he promised friendship. The Sisodias did not oppose the Marathas for several decades. However, in Jaipur, when Sawai Jaisingh made similar arrangements, Bajirao easily sat on the throne. When Jaisingh asked why, he said, “The Kachchwahas of Jaipur are servants of the Mughals since a century, and have sold their daughters to the Paatshah.” Thus shamed; Jaisingh paid a tribute, and agreed to persuade the Paatshah.

The Rajputs strongly argued in favor of accepting Maratha demands; however, Muhammad Shah refused. It would cost him dearly.

Battle of Delhi

At the end of 1736, Bajirao set out from Pune with an army of 50,000. In Malwa, he was joined by Holkar and Shinde; together they collected the Malwa revenue, while Pilaji Jadhavrao did the same in Bundelkhand. In February 1737, the Marathas reached the Yamuna River, and Malharrao Holkar crossed it with an advance force of 10,000.

L-R: Khan Dauran, Wazir Qamruddin Khan, Muzaffar Khan; Source: Museum of Fine Arts, Boston (The Era of Bajirao Book)
L-R: Khan Dauran, Wazir Qamruddin Khan, Muzaffar Khan; Source: Museum of Fine Arts, Boston (The Era of Bajirao Book)

Alarmed, the Mughals sent huge armies led by Saadat Khan, Khan Dauran, Muhammad Khan Bangash, and the Wazir, totaling 1.5 lakh soldiers. Unaware, Malharrao found himself facing Saadat Khan with 50,000 men, and had to retreat. Saadat Khan thought he had defeated the entire Maratha army, and wrote to the Emperor accordingly. Soon, Khan Dauran and Bangash joined him at Agra for celebrations! The Wazir was also close by, and now two huge armies lay in between Peshwa Bajirao and Delhi. What would he do?

Through a narrow forest path, Bajirao led his forces between the two armies straight to Delhi and laid it under siege!

The terrified Mughal Emperor hid in the Red Fort, while Govind Patwardhan easily defeated the remaining army in Delhi. Bajirao could have ravaged Delhi, but that would have broken diplomatic cords. So, Bajirao did not harm the citizens. The Emperor finally agreed to all demands, and Bajirao returned victorious. Delhi had been defeated!

Battle of Bhopal

The Mughal prestige was completely shattered, its weakness exposed to the world. Desperate, the Paatshah called the Nizam with a mighty army to Delhi, made peace, and offered him Malwa in return for defeating Bajirao. A combined elite army of 80,000 marched south with powerful cannons. The Nizam also called his son Nasir Jung from Hyderabad with more men.

Undeterred, Peshwa Bajirao called his banners and marched north with Malharrao Holkar, Ranoji Shinde, Pilaji Jadhavrao, Yashwantrao Pawar and 80,000 cavalry. Chimaji Appa stayed behind to block Nasir’s army, while Raghuji Bhonsle delayed Nasir by guerrilla warfare.

The Nizam heard of Bajirao’s approach, and took shelter in Bhopal Fort. The Peshwa besieged Bhopal, and began to starve out the enemy. When they tried to leave in a Square formation, the Marathas harassed them with guerrilla tactics while avoiding their cannons. Soon, they ran out of food, and in January 1738, the Nizam surrendered.

The Mughals signed a treaty accepting Malwa as part of the Maratha Empire, and the Maratha rights to collect revenue from the Narmada to the Yamuna River. The Nizam swore upon the Quran to never again fight against them. The Marathas turned to the Konkan for a long-pending war with the Portuguese.

Nadir Shah’s Invasion- Hindu-Pat-Paatshahi?

Hearing of the Mughals’ weakness, Nadir Shah of Iran invaded India in 1739. Defeating the helpless Mughals, his looting, raping, burning hordes destroyed Delhi and imprisoned the Emperor. Horrified, all eyes turned to the most powerful man in the Subcontinent- Peshwa Bajirao. However, the majority of the Maratha army was engaged in heavy war with the Portuguese, so he was forced to wait at Burhanpur with a small force.

Many thought if the Mughal Emperor died, a Hindu could become Paatshah of Delhi. But Chhatrapati Shahu Maharaj had no desire to sit on the Delhi throne, as per his promise to Aurangzeb. The Rajputs suggested their most noble Maharana of Udaipur should take Delhi, but all knew that Peshwa Bajirao would be the real power behind the throne.

But before they could initiate this, Nadir Shah reinstated Muhammad Shah as Emperor and left with billions in looted treasure. Shahu Maharaj counseled Peshwa Bajirao to continue the Mughal Emperor as a puppet to preserve peace for the time being, while taking the administration in his own hands.

Battle of Vasai

The Portuguese had ruled parts of the Konkan for 200 years, perpetrating horrors and converting people by force. In 1737, Chimaji Appa began a massive liberation campaign and took Thane Fort, Belapur, Dharavi, and Revdanda.

Statue of Sardar Chimaji Appa Bhat, brother of Peshwa Bajirao, at Vasai Fort which he won from the Portuguese
Statue of Sardar Chimaji Appa Bhat, brother of Peshwa Bajirao, at Vasai Fort which he won from the Portuguese

After defeating the Nizam, all the Maratha forces converged at Vasai Fort, which the Portuguese had defended against 3 attacks. In 1739, finally, at the cost of thousands of Maratha lives, Vasai fell. The Portuguese surrendered and left for Goa, their last remaining territory. Konkan was free at last!

Sunset at Narmada

Thus by 1740, the Maratha Empire stretched from Gujarat (west) to Gondwana (east), and Thanjavur and Srirangpatnam (south) to the Yamuna River (north). In 20 years, Peshwa Bajirao had fought 41 major battles without losing a single one; and expanded it from 4-5 districts to covering 30% of India in 20 years.

Source: Untold History Marathi (YouTube)

However, in his last year, Bajirao faced household opposition due to his unorthodox habits (meat, alcohol consumption), and his closeness to Mastani, adding to his stress. After defeating Nasir Jung, he fell ill. Exhausted beyond measure physically and mentally, the Great Peshwa breathed his last at Raverkhedi. As Sir Richard Temple describes, “He died as he lived, in camp under canvas among his men, and is remembered to this day among the Marathas as the fighting Peshwa and the incarnation of Hindu energy.”

He left behind a confident, competent generation of leaders, and an unfinished dream of flying the Maratha flag at Attock. His sons and nephew accomplished it, and for 70 years the Marathas remained Masters of the Subcontinent!

– Ashutosh Dixit

References:

  • The Era of Bajirao- Dr. Uday Kulkarni
  • New History of the Marathas- G.S. Sardesai
  • Peshwa Bajirao I and the Maratha Expansion- Prof. V.G. Dighe

Peshwa Bajirao Ballal, Part 1: The Great Maratha Expansion

Statue of Peshwa Bajirao I; Image Source: Amit20081980, CC BY-SA 3.0

301 years ago, on 17th April 1720, this man became the Prime Minister or Peshwa of the Maratha Empire. In 20 years, he substantially and irrevocably changed the political and cultural map of the Indian Subcontinent. The legacy of this man would define the next half a century in India, and his achievements would become legend. This man was Peshwa Bajirao Ballal Bhat.

In this article, we look at his incredible achievements, to better understand why he is counted among the foremost military commanders and empire-builders in the Indian Subcontinent.

Appointment as Peshwa

In April 1720, Chhatrapati Shahu Maharaj, the Maratha Emperor faced a problem.

Only the previous year, his experienced Prime Minister, Peshwa Balaji Vishwanath Bhat had returned from Delhi. He had secured from the Mughals the independence of the Maratha Swarajya, the release of the Chhatrapati’s mother and wife, and the rights to collect taxes from the 6 Deccan provinces. But now, Balaji had passed away.  The fledgling Maratha Empire still faced many internal and external enemies, and the Chhatrapati knew he needed a dynamic young leader to consolidate his power and defeat them.

Dramatic representation of Chhatrapati Shahu Maharaj appointing Peshwa Bajirao I
Dramatic representation of Chhatrapati Shahu Maharaj and Peshwa Bajirao I

It was then that he was reminded of Balaji’s charismatic elder son, Bajirao Ballal Bhat, renowned as a warrior. Bajirao had accompanied his father to Delhi, fought against the Mughals and protected Shahu’s family. He was barely 19 years old, but Shahu Maharaj had an eye for talent. Accordingly, on 17th April, Chhatrapati Shahu appointed Bajirao as his new Peshwa; a decision that would alter the fate of the Subcontinent.

The Challenges

 Peshwa Bajirao Ballal ascended to his Seat, supported by his experienced mother Radhabai, his loving wife Kashibai, and his ever-loyal younger brother Chimaji Appa. However, he had several problems to face.

The Uncooperative Ministers

The decision to appoint a 19-year old ‘boy’ as Prime Minister did not sit well with senior ministers such as the Pratinidhi (Viceroy), Mantri (Interior Minister) and Sumant (Foreign Minister). Bajirao soon realized they wouldn’t support him; and found their policies too cautious and defensive. However, Bajirao had grown up listening to the heroic exploits of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, and longed to fulfill his dream of Hindavi Swarajya.

Numerous Powerful Enemies

The Marathas had won their independence, but were still surrounded by enemies. On the west coast, the Portuguese controlled vast parts of the Konkan and Goa, perpetrating forceful conversions on people. The Siddis troubled the Marathas from Janjira, and the British from Bombay. To the east, Nizam ul-Mulk refused to let them collect the taxes as agreed; while in the north, the declining Mughal Empire still had vast resources. Worse, Raja Sambhaji II of Kolhapur, cousin of Chhatrapati Shahu Maharaj, wanted to usurp the senior throne and become Chhatrapati himself!

Decentralized Maratha Power

After the death of Aurangzeb, the Marathas had grown very powerful. However, the individual Maratha sardars were quite autonomous, and apart from the taxes and armies supplied to the Empire, thought mainly about their benefit. They needed a strong, uniform, centralized leadership which the aging Chhatrapati couldn’t provide.

Military Leadership and Reforms

Addressing these challenges, he gathered around him a number of young warriors- his brother Chimaji Appa, Fateh Sinh Bhonsale (the Chhatrapati’s adopted son), Malharrao Holkar, Ranoji Shinde, Udaji Pawar and his brothers. He also earned the support of the veterans Ambajipant Purandare and Pilaji Jadhavrao, the Army Commander, Senapati Khanderao Dabhade, and the Navy Admiral, Sarkhel Kanhoji Angre.

(L-R) Raja Fateh Sinh Bhonsale, Chimaji Appa Bhat, Malharrao Holkar, Ranoji Shinde, Ambajipant Purandare, Pilaji Jadhavrao (Bajirao's inner circle); and Senapati Khanderao Dabhade and Sarkhel Kanhoji Angre, his cooperative colleagues in the Pradhan Mandal
(L-R) Raja Fateh Sinh Bhonsale, Chimaji Appa Bhat, Malharrao Holkar, Ranoji Shinde, Ambajipant Purandare, Pilaji Jadhavrao (Bajirao’s inner circle); and Senapati Khanderao Dabhade and Sarkhel Kanhoji Angre, his cooperative colleagues in the Pradhan Mandal; Image credits to respective artists

Taking charge of the Empire’s central military, Bajirao trained them with discipline and rigor, making them a force to be reckoned with. Having studied their enemies, he knew their cannons and artillery were far superior to the Marathas. Hence, he decided to focus on the cavalry division and carry out guerrilla warfare which was their traditional expertise. He introduced several reforms to his troops:

  • His army carried 3 horses between each 2 men, of which one was always without any load. This ensured that if one horse got tired, they would immediately replace it with the free horse, and allow the tired one to run unburdened. This allowed them to cover very long distances with lightning speed, only stopping when the riders themselves had to sleep.
  • He ensured that they traveled light, carrying nothing but their weapons and light armor. The troops lived off the land, hunting in the forests, buying food from farmers, or looting enemy supplies. Sometimes, they even left their tents behind for speed and slept upon their saddles!
  • He trained his troops to always trap the enemy at a location favorable to them. There, they would cut off the enemy’s food and water supply, bringing even the toughest army to its knees!

Early Years

In his very first year he assisted Kanhoji Angre in defeating the British fleet; while in 1724, he helped the rebel Nizam ul-Mulk to defeat Mughal forces. Since his visit to Delhi, Peshwa Bajirao had observed the weakness and decadence of the Mughals. Now, he knew the time was right to go on the offensive.

Shrimant Peshwa Bajirao I, Prime Minister of the Maratha Empire; Image Source: Amit20081980, CC BY-SA 4.0
Shrimant Peshwa Bajirao I, Prime Minister of the Maratha Empire; Image Source: Amit20081980, CC BY-SA 4.0

One day, in a meeting of all the ministers at court, Bajirao thunderously declared his grand vision:

“The (Mughal) paatshahi is weak, has no life left in it…Give us the order! I will bring armies and treasures and place them at the feet of the swami (Chhatrapati). I will counter the Nizam (in South India) and campaign in Hindustan (North India) as well! The Thorle Maharaj (Chhatrapati Shivaji) wished to capture Hindustan; that remains incomplete. It is for this purpose that swami has risen to power.

Strike! Strike at the trunk of the withering tree and the branches will fall off themselves. Listen but to my counsel; and I shall plant the Maratha flag on the walls of Attock!”

Hearing this, Shahu Maharaj exclaimed, “With such men in my service, I can take the boundaries beyond the Himalayas!” And so they set out to create the Hindavi Swarajya of Chhatrapati Shivaji’s dreams!

The Karnataka Campaigns

In 1725, Peshwa Bajirao led his first successful expedition into the Karnatak along with Fateh Sinh Bhonsale, the Senapati, and Shripatrao Pant Pratinidhi. The Marathas proceeded via Bijapur to Chitaldurg, collecting their taxes, renewing their alliances, and defeating those who opposed them. Also, Fateh Sinh took some forces to Thanjavur (in Tamil Nadu) where ruled the Chhatrapati’s cousin Raja Sharfoji Bhonsale, and renewed their old alliance.

The next year Bajirao campaigned south again, reaching as far as Srirangapatnam, created alliances with the Nawabs of Bednur and Arcot, resolving their disputes with Raja Sharfoji and establishing peace. However, before he could proceed further, he received an urgent summons from his Emperor.

Taking advantage of the Maratha army’s absence, Nizam-ul-Mulk had supported Sambhaji II of Kolhapur and marched against Shahu Maharaj. Of course, his actual goal was to destroy Shahu and appoint Sambhaji II as his own puppet! But just when all seemed lost, Bajirao returned. Sending Chimaji Appa with Shahu Maharaj to the safety of Purandar fort, Peshwa Bajirao Ballal then rode into battle.

The Battle of Palkhed

The Nizam, Sambhaji II and their armies began ravaging Pune and adjoining areas. Here, the Nizam arranged Sambhaji’s marriage and announced him as the new Chhatrapati! With his powerful cannons he began capturing nearby forts. By attacking Bajirao’s home, the Nizam wanted to bring him into open confrontation. After all, if a man’s home was attacked, wouldn’t he rush to defend it?

 Instead, Bajirao set out with his trusted Sardars- Holkar, Shinde, Pawar, Somvanshi- and a pure cavalry force. Using guerrilla tactics, he plundered the Nizam’s territory at Jalna and Sindkhed, defeating Aiwaz Khan. Then ravaging through the Varhad region, he crossed Khandesh with lightning speed and reached Gujarat! Here, he encouraged the Mughal Subhedar to attack the Nizam! Then, he spread a rumor that he would attack the Nizam’s wealthy cities of Burhanpur and Aurangabad. The Nizam fell prey to the same tactic he had tried to use- he abandoned his campaign and returned to protect his home!

Battle of Palkhed: Movements of Nizam ul-Mulk and Peshwa Bajirao I; Image Source: Mahusha, CC BY-SA 4.0
Battle of Palkhed: Movements of Nizam ul-Mulk and Peshwa Bajirao I; Image Source: Mahusha, CC BY-SA 4.0

The Nizam Surrenders

Nizam ul-Mulk Asaf Jah I, 1st Nizam of Hyderabad

With his immense speed, Bajirao was covering 3 times the distance of the Nizam. So, the Nizam left his heavy cannons and supplies behind to increase his speed. This was exactly what Bajirao had been waiting for! With deadly speed, he trapped the Nizam at Palkhed in February 1728. With no food, no water, no cannons, the Nizam was helpless. The Maratha cavalry continuously circled his camp from the thick forests, killing anyone who tried to escape.

Within a week, the Nizam surrendered, and signed the Treaty of Mungi-Shevgaon. In it, he agreed to accept Shahu Maharaj as the Chhatrapati of the Marathas, withdraw his support to Sambhaji II, restore all the captured land, and faithfully pay the Chauth and Sardeshmukhi taxes of the six Deccan provinces to Shahu Maharaj. Thus, Peshwa Bajirao defeated the Nizam, a wily strategist who was 30 years older and had been trained by Aurangzeb himself!

Consequently, eminent Indian historian Sir Jadunath Sarkar called Bajirao a ‘heaven-born cavalry leader’ for these tactics. British Field Marshall Bernard Montgomery called the Battle of Palkhed ‘a masterpiece of strategic mobility’, and used similar tactics to defeat Nazi German forces in 1942!

The Battle of Amjhera

In the same year, Bajirao sent his brother Chimaji Appa, along with Malharrao Holkar and Udaji Pawar into the rich province of Malwa (modern Madhya Pradesh). However, the veteran Rajput Giridhar Bahadur, Mughal Subhedar, moved to oppose Chimaji along with his brother Daya Bahadur. The Mughal forces expected the Marathas to take a direct route over Tanda ghat; however, Chimaji crossed through an eastern route and surprised them at Amjhera.

In a long, fierce battle, the Bahadur brothers and their army was destroyed. Shock waves reverberated throughout the Mughal Empire, as one by one, the local lords of Malwa began accepting Maratha rule. At this very time, Peshwa Bajirao received a plea for help that would change his life!

The Battle of Jaitpur- Bundelkhand Campaign

In 1672, a young Bundela Rajput nobleman, Chhatrasal had visited Shivaji Maharaj seeking employment. Instead, Shivaji Maharaj had inspired Chhatrasal to fight the Mughals and raise his own Swarajya in Bundelkhand (part of Uttar Pradesh), and promised his help. Over 55 years, Chhatrasal created and successfully defended his kingdom. But in 1729, the old king approaching age 80 was finally captured by Mughal Subhedar Muhammad Khan Bangash. Desperately, he asked for help from the Maratha Peshwa.

Without a thought for personal benefit, Peshwa Bajirao led his armies over 500 kilometers through hilly, unfrequented paths to reach an escaped Raja Chhatrasal. Together, their forces marched through such an unknown route that Bangash didn’t even know until they were just 20 km away! Hurriedly, Bangash started defending Jaitpur Fort, and called his son Qaim Khan with an army of 30,000 more to join him.

Alliance with Bundela Rajputs

It was no use. The Marathas and Bundelas defeated Qaim Khan and besieged Jaitpur. As the summer heat increased and food ran out, the Mughal soldiers began starving so badly that they began killing and eating their horses. Soon, the soldiers abandoned Bangash, and he was forced to surrender, sign a treaty and swear an oath to never again attack Bundelkhand.

Maharaja Chhatrasal I and his daughter, Mastani (2nd Image Source: Raja Dinkar Kelkar Museum, CC BY-SA 4.0
Maharaja Chhatrasal I and his daughter, Mastani (2nd Image Source: Raja Dinkar Kelkar Museum, CC BY-SA 4.0

Raja Chhatrasal was overjoyed! And so, amid great celebration, he declared Bajirao as his third son and gave him one-third of his kingdom as a gift. Additionally, he also asked Bajirao to marry his favorite daughter- Mastani, born of a Muslim concubine. Contrary to popular tales, the marriage was a politically arranged alliance. It gave the Bundelas a powerful protector; while to the Marathas, it gave a firm base in North India to plan campaigns against the ultimate target- Delhi!

Deep Singh’s Diplomatic Mission

The next year, Shahu Maharaj himself led an army against Sambhaji II, and forced him to surrender. Magnanimously, he allowed Sambhaji to keep his kingdom of Kolhapur and title himself Chhatrapati so long as he acknowledged Shahu’s supremacy. Soon, the two cousins became allies.

Thus by 1730, the Marathas had risen to great power, resolved major internal differences, and inflicted great defeats to the Mughals. Worried, the court of Delhi decided to send a diplomatic mission led by Rajput envoy Deep Singh of Jaipur to the Deccan, to meet the Marathas and ascertain their demands. When he visited the Nizam, their recorded conversation gives a great insight about Bajirao’s stature!

Nizam: Whom do you find worthy of trust and respect at Satara? Who commands the Raja’s confidence?

Deep Singh: Of course Bajirao! No one else at Shahu’s court can equal Bajirao in valor, integrity, diplomatic talent, or organizational capacity. He is the man who pre-eminently rules the Maratha court…his army trusts him as a superior personality.

At 30 years, Bajirao had thus already proved his capabilities throughout India. Now, he was planning his next move to make the Marathas the supreme power in the Subcontinent!

So what happened next? Find out in Part 2 on Peshwa Bajirao, coming soon!

– Ashutosh Dixit

References:

  • The Era of Bajirao- Dr. Uday Kulkarni
  • New History of the Marathas- G.S. Sardesai
  • Peshwa Bajirao I and the Maratha Expansion- Prof. V.G. Dighe

The Chhatrapati and the Peshwa, Part 2- Balaji Vishwanath secures the Swarajya

Peshwa Balaji Vishwanath Statue, Shriwardhan; Source: Amit20081980 / CC BY-SA

In January 1708, Shahu Maharaj was crowned Chhatrapati at Satara. This moment signaled a new page in Indian history, but that wasn’t apparent at the time. Rather, Shahu had to face so many threats from so many sides in the decade that followed, that people questioned whether the Marathas would even survive politically. And yet, survive they did, thanks to another great man who arose from humble origins- Peshwa Balaji Vishwanath Bhat.

Balaji Vishwanath Bhat- Origins

Balaji Vishwanath Bhat was born in 1660 in the coastal town of Shrivardhan. The area was, at the time, controlled by the Siddis of Janjira. Fleeing their persecution, Balaji migrated to the Maratha heartland, accompanied by his close friend Balaji Bhanu and his 2 brothers.

Peshwa Balaji Vishwanath Statue, Shriwardhan; Source:  Amit20081980 / CC BY-SA
Peshwa Balaji Vishwanath Statue, Shriwardhan; Source: Amit20081980 / CC BY-SA

Coming to Purandar, he became acquainted with the Purandare family, and served as an accountant for Dhanaji Jadhav. With his brilliant mind and penchant for diplomacy, Balaji quickly became a trusted aide to the administration. In a letter by Ramchandra Pant Amatya to Chhatrapati Rajaram (in 1693), he recalls having sent Balaji Vishwanath to search for Sambhaji Maharaj after his capture by the Mughals. During Rajaram’s reign, Balaji was a revenue-collecting official in Chiplun, and later Pune. Since all of Maharashtra had come under Mughal occupation at the time, collecting revenue and sending it safely to the ministers was difficult. However, Balaji excelled in his duties and was made the Sarsubhedar of Pune by 1700. During this time, he had also provided resources and ensured Shahu’s welfare in the Mughal camps, most probably through the help of Mughal Princess Zeenat un-Nissa.

When Shahu returned in 1707, Balaji played a huge part in convincing his master Senapati Dhanaji Jadhav and other leaders to support Shahu. In recognition of this, Shahu appointed Balaji as ‘Senakarte’ or the Head of Army Logistics. His job was to procure funds for the armies. Balaji advised young Shahu to recreate the stable administration system of Shivaji Maharaj which had completely fallen apart. Key to this was reinstating the Pradhan Mandal. Hence, on the recommendation of the Senapati and Khando Ballal Chitnis, Shahu appointed Bahiro Pant Pingale, youngest son of the first Peshwa Moro Pant, as the new Peshwa (Prime Minister). He also released Parshuram Pant ‘Pratinidhi’ after he swore loyalty to Shahu. Balaji also advised on the appointments of the other ministers.

Challenges to the Maratha Kingdom

Despite Shahu’s coronation and the new administrative appointments, their troubles were far from over. Shahu knew his aunt Tarabai would not give up her claims easily. Wisely, he extended her an olive branch, and agreed to divide the Kingdom between them, avoiding further conflict. Tarabai spurned his offer. She released Ramchandra Pant Amatya and asked him to take charge of her son’s administration. The veteran advised her to make peace, but she denounced Shahu as a Mughal puppet.

Again, Shahu led an army to Panhala, but Tarabai escaped to Rangna. When Shahu decided to pursue her, Dhanaji reminded him of everything Tarabai had accomplished and sacrificed for the Maratha cause. So, Shahu declared the territory of Panhala and surrounding areas as Tarabai’s independent domain, and retreated. He decided to focus on improving administration and strengthening his position. Tarabai established her capital at Kolhapur, forever dividing the Maratha Kingdom into two.

Maharani Tarabai statue in Kolhapur; Image Source
Maharani Tarabai statue in Kolhapur; Image Source

The New Senapati

Senapati Dhanaji Jadhav died soon after. Immediately, Shahu’s position weakened, as many of the sardars had supported him because of Dhanaji. With the Commander gone, how long would Shahu last?

Shahu promoted Dhanaji’s son Chandrasen as the new Senapati, but this proved problematic. Chandrasen had always resented the trust that Balaji Vishwanath had shared with his father, and privately believed in Tarabai’s cause. Over the next two years, his rivalry with Balaji only increased as Balaji grew closer to Shahu. Hence, rather than try to consolidate his king’s position, Chandrasen indulged in conspiracy with Tarabai.

The Rebellious Sardars

During the War of Independence, all the Maratha sardars had operated independently, with the only common bond being their fight against the Mughals. Rajaram Maharaj and his Council had encouraged them to raise their own armies and conquer territories back from the Mughals, by declaring that the territory they conquered would remain under their rule. Although against the policies established by Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, this yielded good results during the War. However, now that there was a central governing authority back in place, the sardars were reluctant to give up their autonomy. Hence, many of them refused to pay the taxes owed to Shahu.

Chhatrapati Shahu Maharaj and Peshwa Bahiro Pant Pingale then personally led missions to collect the taxes and keep the economy afloat. With his decades of experience in revenue collection, Balaji’s advice became indispensable. Soon Balaji became Shahu’s friend, philosopher, and guide; and his success in battlefield logistics and revenue administration ensured his meteoric rise to power.

Relations with the Mughals

Though the Mughals freed Shahu, they continued to keep his mother and wife imprisoned. Hence, Shahu had no choice but to submit to them. In Delhi, Prince Muazzam had killed his brother Azam and crowned himself as Bahadur Shah. He then came to Hyderabad to kill his last remaining brother Kam Baksh. At this time, Shahu sent his envoys to Bahadur Shah, professing his loyalty to the Mughals. In return, he asked the Emperor to free his family, and declare him the rightful successor to Shivaji rather than his cousin Shivaji II. This would allow Shahu Maharaj the important rights of collecting the Chauth (one-fourth of total revenue) that his grandfather had exercised over most of the Deccan.

However, when his envoys reached the Mughal camp, they found Tarabai’s envoys already there! The wily old queen, while denouncing Shahu as a Mughal puppet, was herself trying to gain favor with them.

Mughal Emperor Bahadur Shah I
Mughal Emperor Bahadur Shah I

Bahadur Shah I diplomatically declared that this was an internal issue that the Marathas must resolve among themselves. This, of course, ensured that the Marathas remained divided!

Balaji Vishwanath becomes Peshwa

In 1711, tensions peaked between Chandrasen and Balaji. Using a hunting accident as an excuse, Chandrasen attacked Balaji with 3000 men. Not having enough men to fight, Balaji sought refuge at Purandar. The great sardars Pilaji Jadhavrao and Yamaji Dhumal protected his family- wife Radhabai, two daughters, and two sons- Bajirao and Chimaji. Shahu Maharaj sent a great army and defeated Chandrasen, who escaped and joined Tarabai. This was also 11-year old Bajirao’s first battle.

In 1713, an even greater calamity struck. Kanhoji Angre, the great Sarkhel or Admiral of the Maratha Navy, declared his support for Tarabai. He had so far not acted for either side, preferring to administer the coast independently, but now he began capturing Shahu’s forts. Bahiro Pant Peshwa led an army, but proved no match for the experienced admiral. Kanhoji imprisoned him at Kolaba Fort, and marched toward Satara.

At Shahu’s court, none of the other Pradhans were ready to deal with Kanhoji. In desperation, Shahu turned to his trusted advisor Balaji; however, Balaji was a ‘Senakarte’ and not a full Cabinet Minister. Kanhoji would not take him seriously, so Balaji pragmatically advised Shahu to appoint him an interim Peshwa. Thus on 13 November 1713, Balaji Vishwanath was appointed the 5th Peshwa of the Swarajya. Balaji led successful countermoves against Kanhoji, such that Kanhoji finally agreed to discuss terms.

Peshwa Balaji Vishwanath; Source: By Amit20081980 - Own work, CC BY-SA 4.0
Peshwa Balaji Vishwanath; Source: By Amit20081980 – Own work, CC BY-SA 4.0

Peshwa Balaji Vishwanath stabilizes the Swarajya

In a historic meeting at Lohagad, Kanhoji and Balaji connected over their shared ‘Konkani’ heritage. Balaji appealed to the old man’s patriotism, as a bakhar narrates-

Your father Tukaji served Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj. Now Shahu Maharaj is the senior, the heir to the throne…Instead, you are serving the younger brother and have turned your face away from Chhatrapati Shahu. Is it the dharma of a servant to imprison the Pradhan or take the master’s forts?”

Eventually, in return for near-autonomy over the Konkan, Kanhoji agreed to serve Shahu Maharaj, released Bahiro Pant, and returned the captured forts. Shahu gave him a place in his Council, and agreed to provide troops against the Portuguese and Siddis. Shahu then made Balaji’s appointment permanent.

Balaji set out to stabilize the kingdom. Meeting all the important Sardars, he signed treaties similar to the one with Kanhoji. The Sardars got the right to govern their territories without interference, in return for supporting Shahu Maharaj with troops and taxes. Those that refused were defeated and captured. Peace was slowly restored. Balaji also designed a new, robust revenue collection system that slowly revitalized the economy and brought prosperity.

All that remained to be dealt with was Tarabai.

Conspiracy in Kolhapur

The solution was not difficult. In 1700, when Tarabai crowned her son Shivaji II after Rajaram’s death, she had imprisoned Rajaram’s other wife Rajasbai and her son Sambhaji II. After all, if Tarabai could seat her son on the throne that Rajaram had always declared would go to his nephew Shahu, there was nothing stopping Rajasbai from doing the same!

Thus, in 1714, after finding Tarabai and her son unwilling to establish peace, their administrator Ramchandra Pant released Rajasbai and her son from prison. Rajasbai took over the throne of Kolhapur and imprisoned Tarabai and her son at Panhala. Rajasbai sent a letter to Shahu, accepting the demarcation of territories, and seeking his blessings. Shahu Maharaj promised her his protection, and peace was established in the Swarajya.

Alliance with the Sayyads

Meanwhile, the death of Bahadur Shah in 1712 marked the death of the last competent Mughal Emperor. His successor Jahandar Shah was addicted to wine and opium, and preferred cavorting with his many mistresses than ruling. He was deposed by his nephew Farrukh Siyar, who came into power only with the support of two brothers- the kingmakers Sayyad Abdullah and Sayyad Hussein Ali. These brothers now held the true power in Delhi. Abdullah became the Wazir, and Hussein Ali came to the Deccan as the new Viceroy in 1715.

Hussein Ali and the Marathas clashed for over two years without any conclusion. At the same time, Farrukh Siyar was trying to get rid of the controlling Sayyad brothers, who knew it. Conspiracies became commonplace.

In 1718, the Sayyad brothers realized that Farrukh Siyar was becoming a threat to their power. Hence, Hussein Ali approached Peshwa Balaji Vishwanath; they drafted a treaty and sent it to the Emperor. Farrukh Siyar denied all the terms. Then the Marathas and Sayyads sprung their trap.

They declared that one of Aurangzeb’s grandsons had been in Maratha custody since Aurangzeb’s death, and that they would hand him over to the Mughals in return for their demands. In truth, the grandson had died long ago; but the Marathas found an impostor to act the role. They furnished him with all the grandeur befitting a Mughal prince. Farrukh Siyar knew this ‘prince’ was a threat to his throne! He demanded the Marathas hand him over.

The Marathas march to Delhi

The Zari Patka in Delhi: Talk by D. Uday Kulkarni on Maratha Influence in 18th century India
The Zari Patka in Delhi: Talk by D. Uday Kulkarni on Maratha Influence in 18th century India

In 1718, the Marathas set out with an army of 50,000, led by Peshwa Balaji Vishwanath, new Senapati Khanderao Dabhade, Balaji Bhanu, Pilaji Jadhavrao, and 18-year old Bajirao. They were joined by Hussein Ali with an equally formidable force. On 16 February, this mighty army entered Delhi. The first day went by in negotiations.

The next day, heavy skirmishes occurred in the Delhi streets between the Emperor’s men and Hussein Ali’s. The Marathas were ambushed, and blood flowed freely. Balaji Bhanu was murdered; however, Bajirao and his contingent successfully guarded one of the gates of the Red Fort. Angry, Hussein Ali dragged out Farrukh Siyar hiding in his harem, and blinded him!

In his place, the Sayyads installed a new puppet, Rafi ud-Darjat, who meekly signed the treaty with the following terms:

  1. Formal recognition by the Mughals of the independent Swarajya founded by Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj
  2. Formal recognition of Shahu as the supreme ruler and Chhatrapati of the Marathas
  3. Release of all imprisoned Marathas including Shahu’s mother, wife, and half-brother
  4. The rights to collect the Chauthai (25% of total revenue) in all 6 provinces of the Deccan- Aurangabad, Khandesh, Bidar, Varhad, Bijapur and Telangana, to the Maratha Government
  5. The rights to collect the Sardeshmukhi (10% of total revenue) in all 6 provinces of the Deccan, personally to the Chhatrapati 

In return, the Marathas would:

  1. Recognize the Mughal Emperor’s nominal authority
  2. Keep an army to maintain peace in the Deccan
  3. Keep an additional 15,000 troops for the protection of the Mughal throne

 As historian G.S. Sardesai states, ‘when a sovereign seeks protection from a vassal, it means that in actual practice the comparative strength of the two parties is reversed’. Thus, while in name, the Marathas acknowledged Mughal authority outside their Swarajya, in reality they had become protectors of the Mughals!

Swarajya becomes Saamrajya

Reunited with his family, a weary Shahu approaching age 40 desired some peace and quiet. He asked Peshwa Balaji Vishwanath to handle the everyday responsibilities in his name, and shift his own court to Pune, which was being raided by miscreants. Accordingly, Balaji moved to Pune and began handling the administration from there, with regular reports sent to Satara. He spent the next few months stabilizing the new administration and passed away in April 1720. His accomplishments earned him the title ‘Second Founder of the Maratha State’!

Chhatrapati Shahu Maharaj and his Peshwa; Source: Amit20081980~commonswiki / CC BY-SA 4.0
Chhatrapati Shahu Maharaj and his Peshwa; Source: Amit20081980~commonswiki / CC BY-SA 4.0

Shahu Maharaj appointed his son Bajirao as his next Peshwa. During Bajirao’s illustrious career, the Peshwa or Prime Minister became the real power centre of the Marathas, while still serving the Chhatrapati as the master. Since Shahu had no sons, he adopted his nephew Rajaram II (son of Shivaji II) as his titular successor, and officially transferred the authority of ruling the now vast empire to the Bhat Peshwa family. Under the Chhatrapatis and the Peshwas, the Marathas ruled most of the subcontinent for 70 years, constituting a glorious albeit forgotten chapter in Indian history.

– Ashutosh Dixit