Question 1

What was the role of the Peshwa in the Maratha Empire?

Accepted Answer

Prime Minister and chief administrator. The Peshwa was the Prime Minister of the Maratha Empire, responsible for overall administration and policy. Over time, the Peshwas grew so powerful that they became the de facto rulers while the Chhatrapati remained the nominal head. The position was held by the Bhat family and became hereditary from the time of Balaji Vishwanath.

Question 2

Who was the first powerful Peshwa who transformed the office into a position of real power?

Accepted Answer

Balaji Vishwanath. Balaji Vishwanath Bhat became Peshwa in 1713 and was the first to transform the office into a position of real political power. He freed Chhatrapati Shahu from Mughal captivity with diplomatic skill. He laid the foundation for Peshwa dominance that would continue for the next century.

Question 3

In which year did Balaji Vishwanath become Peshwa?

Accepted Answer

1713. Balaji Vishwanath became Peshwa in 1713 under Chhatrapati Shahu Maharaj. He established the Bhat family's claim to the Peshwaship and made it the most powerful office in the Maratha Confederacy. His political acumen and diplomacy earned him the title 'the second founder of the Maratha kingdom.'

Question 4

Who is considered the greatest Peshwa who never lost a battle?

Accepted Answer

Baji Rao I. Baji Rao I, son of Balaji Vishwanath, is considered the greatest Peshwa and one of the finest cavalry generals India has ever produced. He never lost a battle throughout his military career, earning him the title 'greatest exponent of cavalry tactics.' He expanded Maratha territory from the Deccan to Delhi and beyond.

Question 5

The Battle of Palkhed (1728) was won by Peshwa Baji Rao I against whom?

Accepted Answer

Nizam of Hyderabad. The Battle of Palkhed in 1728 was a brilliant strategic victory by Peshwa Baji Rao I against the Nizam of Hyderabad (Nizam-ul-Mulk). Baji Rao cut the Nizam's supply lines and forced him to surrender without a major engagement. This victory established Maratha supremacy in the Deccan.

Peshwa Period & Maratha Wars — Set 1