Bajirao I
Bajirao I (also known as Visaji Bajirao Ballal[1][2]) was the 7th and most powerful Peshwa (prime minister) of the Maratha Empire. Born on August 18, 1700, he is regarded as one of the most energetic leaders in Maratha history, second only to Shivaji. Bajirao became Peshwa when he was just twenty years old and was known for his quick decisions and love for military adventures.[3]
Shrimant Peshwa Bajirao I | |
|---|---|
 Portrait of Bajirao I | |
 7th Peshwa of the Maratha Empire | |
| In office 17 April 1720 – 28 April 1740 | |
| Monarch | Shahu I |
| Preceded by | Balaji Vishwanath |
| Succeeded by | Balaji Bajirao |
| Personal details | |
| Born | Visaji Bhat 18 August 1700 Dubere, Sinnar, Maratha Kingdom |
| Died | 28 April 1740 (aged 39) Rawerkhedi, Maratha Confederacy |
| Spouse(s) |
|
| Children | 5, including Balaji Baji Rao, Shamsher Bahadur and Raghunath Rao |
| Mother | Radhabai Barve |
| Father | Balaji Vishwanath |
| Relatives |
|
| Signature |  |
| Service/branch |  Maratha Army |
| Rank | Peshwa |
| Unit | Peshwa's Cavalry |
| Battles/wars | See list
|
Early Life
changeBorn into a Brahmin family, he was one of the two sons of Radhabai and Balaji Vishwanath. His younger brother, Chimnaji Appa, also became a skilled and respected general in the Maratha armies and remained loyal to Bajirao throughout his life. Balaji Vishwanath, their father, was a strict disciplinarian and instilled strong values and a sense of adventure in both his sons. Bajirao often accompanied his father on military campaigns and witnessed his victories over the enemies of Shahu Maharaj, which had a lasting impact on him.[4]
Military Campaigns
changeThroughout his career, Bajirao I fought against many leaders and groups. Some of his notable opponents included:
His rival faction in Gujarat (Trimbakrao's Maratha faction)[5]
The Siddis of Janjira[5]
The Portuguese[5] and the
Bajirao I played a key role in turning the Maratha Kingdom into a powerful empire. During his leadership, he expanded Maratha control from just 3% to about 30% of the Indian subcontinent.[6]
Death
changeBaji Rao I died on the banks of the Narmada River. His death was caused by his body being worn out from the many wars and battles he had fought throughout his life.[7]
References
change- ↑ Gokhale, Sandhya (2008). The Chitpavans: social ascendancy of a creative minority in Maharashtra, 1818–1918. Shubhi. p. 82. ISBN 978-8182901322.
- ↑ Chhabra, G. S. (2005) [1971]. Advanced Study in the History of Modern India (Volume 1: 1707–1813) (Revised ed.). Lotus Press. p. 19. ISBN 978-8189093068.
- ↑ New Cambridge History of India. The Marathas - Cambridge History of India (Vol. 2, Part 4). p. 114.
- ↑ G.S.Chhabra (2005). Advance Study in the History of Modern India (Volume-1: 1707-1803). Lotus Press. p. 19. ISBN 978-81-89093-06-8.
- ↑ 5.0 5.1 5.2 5.3 5.4 G.S.Chhabra (2005). Advance Study in the History of Modern India (Volume-1: 1707-1803). Lotus Press. pp. 25–27. ISBN 978-81-89093-06-8.
- ↑ Montgomery of Alamein, Bernard Law Montgomery (1972). A concise history of warfare. Internet Archive. London : Collins. p. 132. ISBN 978-0-00-192149-8.
- ↑ Srinivasan, c k (1961). Baji Rao I The Great Peshwa. p. 128.