Madhavrao I: Difference between revisions

What links here Related changes Page information Get shortened URL
Created by Graeme Bartlett
Last edited March 29, 2026
← Older edit
VisualWikitext
robot: Update article (please report if you notice any mistake or error in this edit)
No edit summary
 
Line 1: Line 1:
{{short description|9th Peshwa of Maratha Empire}}
{{short description|Peshwa of Maratha Empire from 1761 to 1772}}
{{Multiple issues|
{{Multiple issues|
{{peacock|date=September 2019}}
{{peacock|date=September 2019}}
{{story|date=September 2019}}
{{more citations needed|date=March 2026}}
{{more citations needed|date=September 2019}}
{{copyedit|date=March 2026}}
}}
}}
{{Infobox Prime Minister
{{Use dmy dates|date=May 2024}}
| honorific-prefix = <i>'''[[Peshwa|Shrimant Peshwa]]'''</i>
{{Infobox officeholder
|name           = Madhavrao I
| honorific_prefix    = ''[[Peshwa|Shrimant Peshwa]]''
| honorific-suffix=[[Ballal]]<ref name="Sarkar1971">{{cite book|author=Sir Jadunath Sarkar|title=1754-1771 (Panipat). 3d ed. 1966, 1971 printing|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=RtU5AQAAIAAJ|year=1971|publisher=Orient Longman}}</ref>
| name               = Madhavrao I
| image = Madhavrao I Peshwa.png
| honorific_suffix    =  
|caption = Portrait of Pradhanpant Shreemant Madhavrao Ballal Peshwa at the [[Yale Center for British Art]]
| image               = Madhavrao I Peshwa.png
|office1= 9th [[Peshwa]] of the [[Maratha Empire]]
| caption             = Portrait of Madhavrao I by Bhoj Raj at the [[Yale Center for British Art]]
|term_start1= June 23, 1761
{{Circa|1763}}
|term_end1=November 18, 1772
| office1             = [[File:Flag of the Maratha Empire.svg|33x30px]] 9th [[Peshwa]] of the [[Maratha Empire]]
|monarch1 = [[Rajaram II of Satara]]
| term_start1         = 23 June 1761
|predecessor1= [[Balaji Baji Rao]]
| term_end1           = 18 November 1772
|successor1 = [[Narayan Rao]]
| monarch1           = [[Rajaram II]]
|birth_date = February 15, 1745
| predecessor1       = [[Balaji Baji Rao]]
|birth_place= Savnur, [[Maratha Empire]]
| successor1         = [[Narayanrao]]
|death_date = November 18, 1772 (aged 27)
| birth_date         = {{Birth date|1745|2|15|df=yes}}
|profession=
| birth_place         = [[Savanur]], [[Savanur State]] <br/> (modern day [[Karnataka]], India)
|death_place= [[Theur]], [[Maratha Empire]]
| death_date         = {{Death date and age|1772|11|18|1745|2|15|df=yes}}
|spouse=[[Ramabai Peshwa|Ramabai]]|birth_name=
| profession         =  
|relations =[[Vishwasrao]] (Elder brother)<br>
| death_place         = [[Theur]], [[Pune]], [[Maratha Confederacy]] <br/> (modern day [[Pune district]], Maharashtra, India)
[[Narayan Rao]] (Younger brother)<br>  
| spouse             = {{Marriage|[[Ramabai Peshwa|Ramabai]]|1758}}
[[Sadashivrao Bhau]] (Uncle)<br>
| birth_name         = Madhavrao Bhat
[[Raghunathrao]] (Uncle)<br>
| relatives          = [[Vishwasrao]] (elder brother)<br>[[Narayanrao]] (younger brother)<br> [[Sadashivrao Bhau]] (uncle)<br>[[Raghunathrao]] (uncle)<br>[[Shamsher Bahadur I (Krishna Rao)|Shamsher Bahadur I]] (uncle)<br>[[Bajirao I]] (grandfather)<br>[[Kashibai]] (grandmother)
[[Shamsher Bahadur I (Krishna Rao)]] (Uncle)<br>
| father              = [[Balaji Baji Rao]]
[[Bajirao I]] (Grandfather)<br>
| mother              = [[Gopikabai]]
[[Kashibai]] (Grandmother)<br>
| residence           = [[Shaniwar Wada]], [[Pune]], [[Maratha Confederacy]]
|parents=[[Balaji Bajirao]] (Father)<br>
| signature          = Handwriting of Madhavrao I.png
[[Gopikabai]] (Mother)<br>
| battles            = {{tree list}}
| residence = [[Shaniwarwada]], [[Pune]], [[Maratha Empire]] }}
* [[Maratha–Mysore wars]]
** [[Capture of Delhi (1771)]]
** [[Battle of Alegaon]]
** Battle of Rakshasbhuvan
{{tree list/end}}
}}
'''Madhavrao I''' (15 February 1745 – 18 November 1772), also known as '''Madhavrao Ballal Bhat''' (''[[Marathi language|marathi]]: माधवराव पेशवे''), was the ninth [[Peshwa]] of the [[Maratha Empire]], ruling from 1761 until his death in 1772. He was the second son of [[Balaji Baji Rao]] and the grandson of [[Bajirao I]]. Madhavrao assumed the office of Peshwa at the age of sixteen following the [[Maratha Empire|Marathas]]' defeat in the [[Third Battle of Panipat]] in 1761. His reign marked a period of political and administrative recovery known as the "Maratha Resurrection", during which the empire reasserted authority over territories lost following the [[Third Battle of Panipat]].<ref>{{Cite web|title=Madhavrao I and Maratha Resurrection|url=https://history-maps.com/story/Maratha-Confederacy/event/Madhavrao-I-and-Maratha-Resurrection|website=HistoryMaps|access-date=2025-11-28|language=en}}</ref>
 
Madhavrao restructured the administration, reduced corruption, and revived the empire’s finances. Under his leadership, the [[Marathas]] reasserted their authority over several regions of [[Western India|western]] and southern [[Indian subcontinent]], notably the [[Carnatic region]], [[Kingdom of Mysore|Mysore]], and [[Hyderabad State|Hyderabad]] through administrative reforms and military campaigns.


''' Peshwa Madhavrao Bhat I''' (February 15, 1745 – November 18, 1772) was the 9th [[Peshwa]] of the [[Maratha Empire]]. During his tenure, the [[Maratha Empire|Maratha empire]] partially recovered from the losses they suffered during the [[Third Battle of Panipat]], a [[phenomenon]] known as [[Maratha Resurrection]].
Madhavrao has been credited for maintaining unity within the Maratha [[Confederation|Confederacy]] through diplomacy and political negotiation. He promoted trade, sought to improve revenue collection, and introduced measures aimed at supporting agricultural stability during his time as the prime minister.


==Early life and ascendancy to Peshwa==
==Early life and ascendancy to Peshwa==
{{More citations needed section|date=March 2025}}
Madhavrao I was the second son of [[Peshwa]] [[Balaji Baji Rao|Balaji Bajirao]], also known as Nanasaheb, and his wife [[Gopikabai]]. He was born in [[Savnur]] on 15 February 1745.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2024-11-15 |title=Reviver of the Maratha Empire: Peshwa Madhavrao I |url=https://hindupost.in/history/reviver-of-the-maratha-empire-peshwa-madhavrao-i/#
|access-date=2025-03-18 |website=hindupost.in |language=en-US}}</ref> He was the grandson of [[Bajirao I]] and [[Kashibai]], as the younger brother of [[Vishwasrao]] and the elder brother of [[Narayanrao]].


{{Unreferenced section|date=April 2017}}
Madhavrao's early years were marked by the political turbulence that followed the [[Third Battle of Panipat]] in 1761, during which his elder brother Vishwasrao and uncle [[Sadashivrao Bhau]] were killed. His father Balaji Baji Rao died shortly afterward.


Madhavrao Bhat was second son of [[Peshwa]] [[Nanasaheb]] ,son of [[Bajirao]]. He was born in [[Savnur]] in 1745. At the time of his birth, the [[Maratha Empire]] was stretched across a sizeable portion of Western, Central and Northern [[India]]. On December 9, 1758, Madhavrao married [[Ramabai Peshwa|Ramabai]] in [[Pune]].
Following his father’s death, Madhavrao, while only sixteen years old, was declared the next Peshwa of the [[Maratha Empire|Maratha Confederacy]] on 21 June 1761.<ref>{{Cite book |last=Majumdar |first=Ramesh Chandra |title=The Maratha Supremacy |publisher=Bharatiya Vidya Bhavan |year=1991 |edition=2nd |location=Mumbai |pages=201}}</ref> His paternal uncle [[Raghunathrao]] (also known as Raghoba Dada) initially served as regent and exercised considerable influence in the early years of his rule.{{Citation needed|date=January 2026}}


[[Nanasaheb]] had greatly expanded the [[Maratha Empire]] and had tried to establish better governance. However, he was held partially responsible for the severe defeat of the [[Maratha Empire|Marathas]] by [[Ahmad Shah Abdali]] at the [[Third Battle of Panipat]] in early 1761. The [[Maratha Army|Maratha forces]] suffered heavy losses including [[Nanasaheb|Nanasaheb's]] eldest son and heir [[Vishwasrao|Vishwasrao Bhat]] and cousin [[Sadashivrao Bhau]].  He died  on June 23, 1761 at [[Parvati Hill]] in [[Pune]].
In 1753, Madhavrao married Ramabai, the daughter of Trimbakrao Bapusaheb Patwardhan, a respected Maratha noble from the [[Patwardhan dynasty|Pathwardhan]] family. When Madhavrao died in 1772 after a prolonged illness, Ramabai chose to perform [[sati (practice)|sati]], immolating herself on his funeral pyre at [[Theur]].<ref>{{Cite book |last=Sardesai |first=Govind Sakharam |title=New History of the Marathas, Volume III: Sunset over Maharashtra (1772–1848) |publisher=Phoenix Publications |year=1948 |page=10}}</ref>


After his father's death, the sixteen-year-old Madhav Rao was made the next [[Peshwa]] of [[Maratha Empire]]. His paternal uncle [[Raghunathrao]] was to act as [[regent]].
==Disputes with Raghunath Rao==
{{Main|Battle of Alegaon|}}
{{More citations needed section|date=March 2022}}
On 22 August 1762, Raghunath Rao moved to [[Vadgaon Maval]] and assembled an army in opposition to the Peshwa. To finance his campaign, Raghunath Rao’s forces reportedly plundered nearby villages. In response to these developments, Madhavrao declared war on his uncle on 7 November 1762. However, he soon proposed a peace treaty in an effort to avoid prolonged civil conflict.


==Early reign==
Raghunath Rao initially agreed to the terms, but shortly after the treaty was signed, he broke the treaty and attacked Madhavrao's camp. Madhavrao was defeated in the [[Battle of Alegaon]] on 12 November 1762 and subsequently surrendered near Alegaon.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Peshwa Madhav Rao [1745–1772]: Maratha–Mysore Wars, Rohilkhand Campaign, Hyder Ali |url=https://byjus.com/free-ias-prep/peshwa-madhav-rao-1745-1772/
|access-date=2025-03-12 |website=BYJU’S |language=en}}</ref>


{{Unreferenced section|date=April 2017}}
Following the surrender, Raghunath Rao assumed control of the Peshwa administration with the assistance of [[Sakharam Bapu Bokil]]. He sought to strengthen his position by forming an alliance with the [[Nizam of Hyderabad]], but this alliance proved short-lived, as the Nizam began encroaching upon Maratha territories. Recognising the growing threat, Madhavrao appealed to his uncle to take action, but when diplomacy failed, he resumed command of the Maratha forces.{{Citation needed|date=January 2026}}


At the ascendancy of Madhavrao, the [[Maratha Empire|Maratha empire]] was in complete shambles as their defeat at [[Panipat]] had accumulated big debts to their wealth. At [[Shaniwar Wada]], the prime residence of the [[Peshwa]], religious rituals and ceremonies were frequently being conducted. The discipline required for the smooth running of administrative affairs was almost non-existent. The security at the treasury was poor. When these weaknesses were brought to Madhavrao's notice, he introduced changes by personally looking into the administration, accounts and the treasury. He also reduced the religious practices being followed at [[Shaniwar Wada]].
Under Madhavrao’s leadership, the Peshwa army marched toward [[Aurangabad, Maharashtra|Aurangabad]] on 7 March 1763, targeting the Nizam’s domains. After several months of maneuvering , the opposing forces met at the Battle of [[Rakshasbhuvan]] near Aurangabad on 10 August 1763.<ref>{{cite book |last1=SarDesai |first1=D.R. |title=India: The Definitive History |date=2007 |publisher=Westview Press |location=Boulder, Colo. |isbn=9780813343525 |pages=194–195 |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=UbpiBAAAQBAJ&q=peshwa+madhavrao&pg=PR11}}
</ref> The Nizam’s army suffered heavy losses and was forced to retreat, marking a decisive victory for Madhavrao and a significant step in restoring Maratha authority in the Deccan.<ref>{{Cite book |last=Mallik |first=Samar Kumar |title=Adhunik Bharoter Dersho Bochor (1707–1857) |publisher=New West Bengal Publishers |year=2018 |edition=18th |location=Kolkata |pages=82 |language=Bengali}}</ref><gallery>
File:Madhavrao Peshwa's handwritten letter 01.jpg|A handwritten letter by Madhavrao I
File:Madhavrao Peshwa's handwritten letter 02.jpg|Continued letter by Madhavrao I
</gallery>


In February 1762, [[Peshwa|Peshwas]] set out to conquer [[Karnataka]]. This was one of the earliest wars against the [[Nizam]] when conflict arose between Madhavrao and his uncle [[Raghunathrao]]. Due to difference of opinion between the two, [[Raghunathrao]] decided to abandon the troop midway and return to [[Pune]], while Madhavrao continued. Eventually, a treaty was signed with the Nizam and Madhavrao returned. Both Madhavrao and [[Raghunathrao]] had their preferences even over the ''Sardars'' (Generals). Madhavrao usually preferred the company of Gopalrao Patwardhan, Tryambakrao Mama Pethe, [[Nana Fadnavis]] and [[Ramshastri Prabhune]]; while Raghunathrao was dearer to [[Sakharam Bapu Bokil]], Gulabrao and Gangoba Tatya.
==The war against Hyder Ali and Mysore==
{{See also|Maratha–Mysore War|Battle of Jadi Hanwati|Battle of Rattihalli}}


==Disputes with Ragunathrao==
On January 1764, Madhavrao I reorganised his forces and launched a renewed campaign against [[Hyder Ali]] Of [[Mysore]]. This expedition was commanded by several prominent Maratha generals, including Gopalrao Patwardhan, [[Murarirao Ghorpade]], Vinchurkar, and Naro Shankar. Although Raghunath Rao was invited to participate in the campaign, he declined and instead withdrew to [[Nashik]]. The campaign lasted for nearly a year and extended across large parts of the former [[Sira Subah]] in present-day [[Karnataka]].
{{More citations needed|section|date=March 2022}}
The discord between Madhavrao and [[Raghunathrao]] was increasing and on August 22, 1762, Raghunathrao fled to [[Vadgaon Maval]] where he started grooming his own army.[[Raghunathrao|Raghunathrao's]] men started looting the nearby villages for warfare and this act angered Madhavrao. He decided to wage a war against his uncle [[Raghunathrao]] on November 7, 1762. However, Madhavrao didn't wish to battle against his own uncle and thus, proposed for a treaty. Raghunathrao agreed to sign the treaty with Madhavrao and asked him to move back to a non-attacking position. Madhavrao did so. However, [[Raghunathrao]] deceived Madhavrao. When the Maratha camp under Madhavrao was relaxed and unsuspecting of a battle, they were caught unawared as [[Raghunathrao]] attacked treacherously. Thus, Madhavrao was defeated in the [[Battle of Alegaon]] and on November 12, 1762 surrendered himself to [[Raghunathrao]] near Alegaon. After the surrender, [[Raghunathrao]] decided to control all the major decisions under the assistance of Sakharam Bapu. He also decided to befriend Nizam, but this proved to be a wrong masterplan as the Nizam slowly started infiltrating the zones of [[Maratha Empire]]. As time slipped by, Madhavrao pointed out the gravity of the situation to his uncle. Eventually on March 7, 1763 the Peshwas, once again under Madhavrao's leadership, decided to attack [[Aurangabad, Maharashtra|Aurangabad]] to crush Nizam. After months of chasing, Peshwas faced Nizam's army on August 10, 1763 in the [[Battle of Rakshasbhuvan]] near [[Aurangabad]].<ref>{{cite book|last1=SarDesai|first1=D.R.|title=India : the definitive history|date=2007|publisher=Westview Press|location=Boulder, Colo. [u.a.]|isbn=9780813343525|pages=194–195|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=UbpiBAAAQBAJ&q=peshwa+madhavrao&pg=PR11}}</ref> Nizam's army suffered huge losses in this war and Nizam retreated.{{cn|date=December 2018}}


==War against Hyder Ali and Mysore==
Hyder Ali avoided capture during the campaign, though the [[Maratha Empire|Marathas]] gained territory in the region. In November 1764, with the assistance of Gopalrao and Anand Rao Patwardhan, the Marathas captured the Dharwad Fort, leaving only [[Bankapura]] under Hyder Ali’s control. Madhavrao’s forces also defeated [[Hyder Ali]] in several other engagements, including the Battle of Jadi Hanvatti and the Battle of Rattihalli.
{{See also|Maratha–Mysore War}}
 
In January 1764, for the second time, Madhavrao decided to gather up his defences and conquer [[Hyder Ali]]. This time his massive army included efficient generals like Gopalrao Patwardhan, Murarrao Ghorpade, Vinchurkar and Naro Shankar. [[Raghunathrao]] declined his offer to join him and instead chose to visit [[Nashik]]. This was a particularly long conquest which went for almost a year in and around the districts of [[Karnataka]]. However, [[Hyder Ali]] somehow managed to escape the clutches of the Peshwas. Eventually, Madhavrao decided to call [[Raghunathrao]] for his assistance, but [[Raghunathrao]] only signed a treaty with [[Hyder Ali]], much to Madhavrao's disappointment. [[Raghunathrao]] intentionally made this move, since he was now fearfully aware of Madhavrao's burgeoning power. Additionally, his loyal assistant Sakharam bapu also warned him against the consequences of conquering Hyder Ali. Peshwa's failure to impose authority over [[Hyder Ali]] triggered a major setback on Madhavrao's health{{cn|date=March 2022}}. In 1767, Madhavrao I organized a 3rd expedition against [[Hyder Ali]] and inflicted defeats on [[Hyder Ali]] in the battles of [[Sira, Karnataka|Sira]] and [[Madhugiri]] and made a surprise discovery of Queen Virammaji the last ruler of the [[Keladi Nayaka Kingdom]] and her son who were kept in confinement in the fort of [[Madhugiri]] by Hyder Ali.<ref name="ReferenceA">Advanced Study in the History of Modern India 1707–1813 by Jaswant Lal Mehta p.458</ref> They were rescued by Madhavrao I and were sent to Pune for protection.<ref name="ReferenceA"/>
As the campaign continued, Madhavrao sought additional support from Raghunath Rao, but his uncle instead entered into a separate peace agreement with [[Hyder Ali]].<ref>{{Cite web |date=2023-09-17 |title=Peshwa Madhav Rao – The Man Who Revived the Maratha Power |url=https://ambiladharma.com/2023/09/peshwa-madhav-rao-resurgence-of-great-maratha-empire-after-3rd-battle-of-panipat.html
|access-date=2023-09-20 |language=en-US}}</ref> In 1767, Madhavrao launched a second expedition against Mysore. Supported by defectors from [[Hyder Ali]]’s camp, Madhavrao won notable victories at [[Sira, Karnataka|Sira]] and [[Madhugiri]]. During the siege of Madhugiri, he discovered Queen Virammaji, the last ruler of the [[Keladi Nayaka Kingdom]], and her young son, who had been imprisoned by [[Hyder Ali]]. Madhavrao arranged for their release and sent them to [[Pune]] for protection.<ref name="ReferenceA">Mehta, Jaswant Lal (2005). ''Advanced Study in the History of Modern India 1707–1813''. Sterling Publishers Pvt. Ltd. p.458.</ref> The Marathas subsequently incorporated the [[Sira Subah]] into their dominions, consolidating their authority over large parts of southern India.<ref name="rice-1897b-166">{{harvnb|Rice|1897b|p=166}}</ref>


==Alliance with Nizam==
==Alliance with Nizam==
{{Unreferenced section|date=August 2017}}
{{Unreferenced section|date=August 2017}}


[[File:Madhavrao Peshwa.JPG|right|thumb|250px|A memorial commemorating "The Great Peshwa Madhavrao" at Peshwe Park in [[Pune]], India]]
[[File:Madhavrao Peshwa.JPG|thumb|250px|Memorial commemorating Madhavrao I at Peshwe Park in [[Pune]], India|left]]


Peshwas were expanding their territory in the northern regions of India. [[Raghunathrao]], [[Holkar|Holkars]] and [[Shinde|Shindes]] together marched towards Delhi with the intention of expanding the [[Maratha Empire]] in these territories. In the meanwhile, Madhavrao made a bold decision of bonding with his old rival, [[Nizam Ali Khan, Asaf Jah II]].{{cn|date=December 2018}} The [[Nizam]] also genuinely expressed his desire to increase the relationship and thus the two met at Kurumkhed on February 5, 1766. The next few days saw some cultural exchanges and open expressions of concern. The levels of mutual understanding alleviated and this relationship started growing stronger.
During Madhavrao’s reign, the Maratha Empire continued its efforts to reassert control and expand its territories in northern Indian subcontinent. Raghunath Rao, along with the [[House of Holkar|Holkars]] and [[Shinde|Shindes (Scindias)]], led a northern expedition toward [[Delhi]] to extend Maratha influence in the region.


== Relations with the East India Company ==
Meanwhile, Madhavrao sought to consolidate the empire’s position in the Deccan by reconciling with his former adversary, [[Nizam Ali Khan, Asaf Jah II]].<ref>{{Cite journal|title=History of India. Part III: Modern India.|url=https://doi.org/10.2307/3035476|journal=Pacific Affairs|date=March 1956|issn=0030-851X|pages=87|volume=29|issue=1|doi=10.2307/3035476|first=Holden|last=Furber|first2=K. A. Nilakanta|last2=Sastri|url-access=subscription}}</ref> The Nizam also expressed willingness to improve relations with the Marathas, and the two leaders met at Kurumkhed on 5 February 1766, marking the beginning of a period of relative peace between the two powers.
{{Unreferenced section|date=August 2017}}
On December 3, 1767, an [[East India Company]] officer named Mastin arrived in Pune. Mastin wanted to establish a [[Presidency armies|military presence]] in the regions of [[Vasai]] and Sashthi, but was confronted by a Madhavrao suspicious of his intentions. Mastin's repeated requests to acquire these regions in return for defeating Hyder Ali fell on deaf ears, and Madhavrao never agreed to them.{{fact|date=September 2021}}


==Raghunathrao faces house arrest==
==Relations with the East India Company==
On 3 December 1767, a representative of the [[East India Company]], [[Thomas Mostyn]], arrived at Pune with a proposal to establish British military presence in [[Vasai]] and [[Salsette Island|Sashti]] in exchange for the territories of [[Bidnur]] and [[Sonda, Karnataka|Sonda]], but the offer was declined by Madhavrao.<ref>{{cite book |author=Anil Chandra Banerjee |title=Peshwa Madhav Rao I |publisher=A. Mukherjee & Bros |date=1943 |page=106 |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=N3tCAAAAIAAJ}}
</ref>


{{Unreferenced section|date=August 2017}}
==Raghunath Rao faces house arrest==
Although [[Raghunathrao|Raghunath Rao]] led an expedition northward in an attempt to expand the Maratha Empire, the campaign did not achieve its intended success. Upon returning to Anandvalli, Raghunath Rao once again sought to consolidate power by forming alliances with certain generals and officials to challenge his nephew, Madhavrao I. His repeated efforts to undermine Madhavrao’s authority created significant instability within the Peshwa administration.


Though Raghunathrao had marched to the north for expanding the empire, he failed to do so. Instead, he came back to Anandvalli and was again tempted to form an alliance with his generals and fight against Madhavrao. This time, however; Madhavrao was extremely agitated with his uncle's repeated attempts to overthrow him. On June 10, 1768 he waged a war against Raghunathrao, captured him and put him under house arrest at Shaniwar Wada along with his assistant [[Sakharam Bapu Bokil]].
In response to Raghunath Rao's maneuvers, Madhavrao mobilised forces on June 10, 1768 and confronted Raghunath Rao. Raghunath Rao was defeated, captured, and placed under house arrest at the [[Shaniwar Wada]]. His key advisor and minister, [[Sakharam Bapu Bokil]], was also detained.


==Assassination attempt==
This decisive action allowed Madhavrao to reassert his authority over the Maratha administration. It also sent a clear message to other factions within the empire that attempts to challenge the young Peshwa would not be tolerated. Following Raghunath Rao’s confinement, Madhavrao focused on consolidating internal governance; strengthening administrative institutions; and continuing military campaigns to recover Maratha territories lost after the Third Battle of Panipat.
{{Unreferenced section|date=August 2017}}
[[File:Madhavrao Peshwa Memorial.JPG|thumb|250px|A memorial marking the death place of Madhavrao Ballal Peshwa and where his wife committed ''Sati''. The memorial is located in the town of [[Theur]], [[Maharashtra]]]]


The incident occurred on the evening of September 7, 1769. Madhavrao was returning from the [[Parvati Temple, Pune|Parvati temple]] at Pune with his comrades, when one of his generals Ramsingh suddenly attacked him with a sword. Madhavrao was warned just in the nick of time and he suffered a blow from the sword on his shoulder as he tried to dodge Ramsingh. Madhavrao believed that this was Raguhnathrao's attempt to murder him, but he imprisoned General Ramsingh.
The capture of Raghunath Rao marked a turning point in Madhavrao’s reign, as it neutralised a major internal threat and enabled him to pursue both northern and southern campaigns without fear of immediate internal rebellion.<ref>{{Cite journal|title=A History of the Maratha People. By C. A. Kincaid and D. B. Parasnis. 8½ × 5½, pp. xi + 503, 17 ills., 3 maps. London: Oxford University Press, 1931. 16''s''.|url=https://doi.org/10.1017/s0035869x00154383|journal=Journal of the Royal Asiatic Society|date=October 1932|issn=1356-1863|pages=1062–1064|volume=64|issue=4|doi=10.1017/s0035869x00154383|last=R. E. E.|url-access=subscription}}</ref>
 
==Death==


{{Unreferenced section|date=August 2017}}
==Northern campaign==
{{See also|Capture of Delhi (1771)}}


[[File:The Sati of Ramabai.jpg|thumb|250px|The cremation of Madhavrao and the sati of his wife Ramabai]]
In 1769, Peshwa Madhavrao I sent a large Maratha army under the command of Ramchandra Ganesh Kanade and [[Visaji Krushna Biniwale]] to recover territories lost in the north following the Third Battle of Panipat. They were joined by prominent generals [[Mahadji Shinde]] and [[Tukoji Rao Holkar]]. The Maratha forces marched towards [[Udaipur]], where the local [[Rajput]] rulers agreed to pay a tribute of 60 lakh rupees. On 5 April 1770, the Marathas defeated the [[Jats]] of [[Bharatpur, Rajasthan|Bharatpur]].


In June 1770, Peshwas set out to conquer Hyder Ali for the third time. However, Madhavrao was infected with [[tuberculosis]] which started deteriorating his health. Tuberculosis was also termed as “Raj-Yakshma” or the prince of diseases. Madhavrao had to return from Miraj as the effects of the disease had started becoming prominent. He was even recommended an English doctor for treatment of the terrible disease and he would follow the advice given by the doctor. However, there were no signs of improvement and slowly it started developing further. The disease had affected his intestine. There was no cure for tuberculosis in those times. Madhavrao decided to spend his last days in his favourite [[Ganesha]] [[Chintamani Temple, Theur]].
In October 1770, the Marathas defeated [[Najib Khan]] [[Rohilla]], one of the primary opponents of the Marathas in the Third Battle of Panipat. In November 1771, [[Visaji Krushna Biniwale]] was appointed in charge of the Maratha Northern Front by Peshwa Madhavrao I. In February 1772, Biniwale and Mahadji Shinde defeated the [[Rohilla]]s of Rohilkhand led by Zabita Khan at Shukratal. They desecrated Najib Khan’s tomb, looted artillery and an additional tribute of 40 lakh rupees. Mahadji Shinde emerged as an important military leader during this campaign.<ref>Rathod, N. G. (1994). The Great Maratha Mahadaji Scindia. Sarup & Sons.</ref>


On 6 October 1772, Raghunathrao tried to escape from the house arrest at Shaniwar Wada, but he was caught again. Madhavrao had become excessively weak, and he could no longer bear such incidents. He had constructed a garden, a wooden hall and a fountain outside this favourite temple.
During the northern campaign, Biniwale persuaded the Mughal Emperor [[Shah Alam II]] to return to Delhi in 1771 and reclaim his throne.<ref>Duff, James Grant (1873). A History of the Mahrattas. Times of India. p. 350.</ref> Pleased with Biniwale’s victories in Rohilkhand, Madhavrao reportedly stated in his will that golden flowers should be showered upon Biniwale upon his arrival at Pune’s borders.


18 November 1772, early morning approximately at eight: Madhavrao died at the temple premises of Chintamani, Theur. Thousands of citizens visited the site and paid their last respects. Madhavrao was cremated on the banks of the river which was about half a mile from the temple. A small memorial carved out of stone rests today at that place as a memorial.
The Maratha capture of Delhi in 1771, led by Mahadji Shinde, restored Mughal emperor Shah Alam II to the throne at the [[Red Fort]] under Maratha protection.<ref>Kadiyan, Chand Singh (2019). "Panipat in History: A Study of Inscriptions." Proceedings of the Indian History Congress, 64: 403–419.</ref><ref>Rathod, N. G. (1994). The Great Maratha Mahadaji Scindia. Sarup & Sons. p. 8.</ref> The Marathas captured Delhi from Najib Khan’s son Zabita Khan, who had been appointed by the [[Afghans]]. This campaign re-established Maratha supremacy in northern India and recovered much of the territory lost after the Third Battle of Panipat.


His wife Ramabai chose to commit ''[[Sati (practice)|sati]]'' with his body at the time of cremation .
Shah Alam II, who had spent six years in [[Allahabad Fort]], was escorted to Delhi under Maratha protection. During their stay, the Marathas constructed two temples in Allahabad, including the [[Alopi Devi Mandir]].


==Character==
In January 1772, Shah Alam II, perceiving Maratha territorial ambitions, ordered his general [[Mirza Najaf Khan|Najaf Khan]] to expel them from Delhi. In response, Tukoji Rao Holkar and Visaji Krushna Biniwale attacked and defeated Mughal forces. The Marathas received imperial ''[[sanad]]s'' for Kora and Allahabad. They then attempted to extend influence over [[Oudh]], but faced resistance from [[Shuja-ud-Daula]] and the British. In the ensuing Battle of Ramghat, the Marathas were forced to withdraw due to the sudden death of Peshwa Madhavrao I and the civil war in Pune over his succession.{{Citation needed|date=March 2026}}


During this time, an interesting incident occurred. Madhavrao was busy managing the treasury of the kingdom and supervising the calculation of the expenses encountered during the war. One day, he noticed a large crowd anxiously waiting at the entrance of [[Shaniwar Wada]]. Upon summoning the guards, he discovered that they were the aggrievated citizens of Pune who had lost their families, house, land and wealth in the war. They had been visiting his residence for the past few days with hopes of expressing their unbearable losses. However, the guards had not allowed them to meet the Peshwa by excusing that his health had deteriorated. When he heard this, Madhavrao became furious with the guards; he immediately left all his tasks aside and stepped out of Shaniwar Wada. He personally met with the poverished families and patiently listened to each one of them. He made a note of every family's loss and personally saw to it that these losses were compensated from the empire's revenue. This speaks volumes about why the citizens always looked up to him with tremendous faith and respect.
==Death==
[[File:The Sati of Ramabai.jpg|thumb|250px|Cremation of Madhavrao I and sati of his wife [[Ramabai Peshwa|Ramabai]]]]


[[File:Plaque on Shrimant Madhavrao Peshwa.JPG|right|250px|thumb|An information plaque commemorating Shrimant Madhavrao I and describing his greatness on display at Peshwe Park in [[Pune]], India]]
In June 1770, the Peshwas planned a third campaign against Hyder Ali, but at the age of 27 Madhavrao I’s health began to decline due to [[tuberculosis]],{{cn|date=March 2026}}{{or|date=March 2026}} also referred to in contemporary sources as "''Raj-Yakshma''" or the "prince of diseases".<ref>{{Cite web |date=2021-12-20 |title=Concept of Disease in Ayurveda – Ayurvedic Disease Synonyms |url=https://www.siddhiyoga.com/ayurveda/treatment/disease-according-to-ayurveda
|website=siddhiyoga.com |access-date=2025-03-12 |language=en-US}}</ref>


Though there were rifts between him and his uncle Raghunathrao, Madhavrao always displayed concern for him on personal grounds. Madhavrao fined his own uncle, his mother's brother, Rastemama for allowing Nizam's men to plunder Pune while his own house was spared. Rastemama complained to his sister and Gopikabai urged Madhavrao to reconsider the fine, he simply refused and did not budge even when she threatened to move out of Shaniwarwada. Gopikabai decided to live separately in Gangapur near [[Nashik]], the two always shared frequent written communication. He had great respect, love and regard for his mother, which is visible in the letters exchanged between the two.
Madhavrao was forced to return from [[Miraj]] as the disease progressed. An English physician was consulted, and Madhavrao followed the recommended treatment, but his condition did not improve. He spent his final days at the [[Chintamani Temple, Theur|Ganesha Chintamani Temple]] in [[Theur]]. Historian James Grant Duff argued that the death of Madhavrao I had a more significant impact on the Maratha Empire's decline than the defeat at the Third Battle of Panipat.{{citation needed|date=April 2024}}


Madhavrao was one of the most able administrators; he brought radical revolutions in the Maratha Empire in terms of efficiency and honesty. Corrupt and lethargic officials were flogged in the courtyard; this brought about the much required discipline in the administration. The judicial system was impartial and faithfully managed by Ram Shastri, who was considered as the supreme pillar of justice. The usage of revenues was maximized for the welfare of the citizens. Artillery and weapons were constantly upgraded and the strength of the empire was maintained at high standards.
Madhavrao I died on 18 November 1772, around 8 a.m., at the temple premises of Chintamani in Theur. His funeral was attended by thousands to pay their last respects. He was cremated on the banks of the nearby river, approximately half a mile from the temple. A small stone memorial was laid there.{{citation needed|date=April 2024}} His wife, [[Ramabai Peshwa|Ramabai]], committed [[Sati (practice)|''sati'']] during the cremation.{{citation needed|date=April 2024}}


Madhavrao was feared by his own servants, but he was approachable to the common man. He was always aware and made others in his fold realize that he is not the king. Justice [[Kashinath Trimbak Telang]] citing [[James Grant Duff]] narrates an amusing story<ref>''Transactions of the ninth International congress of Orientalists'', Volume I (London, 1893) p268</ref> that illustrates Madhavrao's ruthlessness, omniscience and disregard for religious restrictions.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=DxTgAAAAMAAJ|title = Transactions of the Ninth International Congress of Orientalists ( Held in London, 5th to 12th September 1892.)|last1 = Morgan|first1 = Edward Delmar|year = 1893}}</ref>
==Character and legacy==
Contemporary accounts often describe Madhavrao I as having focused on administrative efficiency and internal stability. He was known for his openness, shrewd decisions, and efforts to resolve internal disputes within the Maratha Confederacy. Under his leadership, the Maratha Empire recovered from the devastating losses of the Third Battle of Panipat and regained supremacy in northern Indian subcontinent.


{{cquote|"When he [Madhavrao] was arranging for his expedition against Hyder Ali, he sent a summons to the [[Bhonsle#Nagpur|Bhonsle chief of Nagpur]] ([[Janoji Bhonsle]]) to come over to join the Maratha army. The Bhonsle's agent at Puna went to consult with the ex-minister Sakharam Bapu as to what should be done. The latter was afraid to give his counsel openly as the Peshwa's Karkun was present, but he managed to convey his advice to the Bhonsle's agent without the Karkun understanding the point. He suggested to one of two persons who were sitting near him playing chess that, as the pawns(pyaada in Marathi, meaning both pawn and soldier) of his opponent had advanced in force, he should take back his king a square or two. The Bhonsle's agent, taking the hint, at once wrote off to his master to advise that he should not come to Pune in pursuance of the Peshwa's summons, but should go back the one or two stages he had advanced from Nagpur. This was done accordingly, and Madhavrao, who had a great reputation for obtaining news of everything that was going on in which he was interested, heard of the Bhonsle's return to his capital; and he also heard of Sakharam Bapu's advice, which had led to it, though the latter was perceived only by him hidden under the facts he learnt from the cross-examination of the Karkun. Madhavrao was a man of very strong will. He at once sent for the Bhonsle's agent, and told him of his master's return to Nagpur on the advice of Sakharam Bapu, and added, "If your master is in Poona within fifteen days, well and good; if not, I will pay no heed to my being a Brahman, but will break his head with a tent-peg!"}}
He personally participated in military campaigns and administrative reforms, earning the loyalty and respect of generals such as Mahadaji Shinde, Tukoji Rao Holkar, and Visaji Krushna Biniwale. Madhavrao’s diplomatic acumen was evident in his ability to balance relations with the Nizam of Hyderabad and navigate the growing influence of the East India Company without ceding significant control over Maratha territories.


==Legacy==
Historian R. C. Majumdar described him as one of the most effective Peshwas of the Maratha state.{{Citation needed|date=March 2026}}


Assessing the impact of the loss of Madhavrao, the writer [[James Grant Duff]] eulogised:
<blockquote>
'' "And the plains of [[Battle of Panipat (1761)|Panipat]] were not more fatal to the Maratha Empire than the early end of this excellent prince…" ''<ref name="google">{{cite book|title=Indian Encyclopaedia|author=Kapoor, S.|date=2002|volume=1|publisher=Cosmo Publications|isbn=9788177552577|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=i2l3ssvO6jMC|page=5611|access-date=2015-01-01}}</ref><ref name="google2">{{cite book|title=Contemporary Political Leadership in India: Prafulla Kumar Mahanta, Chief Minister of Assam|author1=Bakshi, S.R.|author2=Sharma, S.R.|author3=Gajrani, S.|date=1998|publisher=APH Publishing Corporation|isbn=9788176480079|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=iP433CnEW_gC|page=64|access-date=2015-01-01}}</ref>
</blockquote>
==In popular culture==
==In popular culture==
* In the 1987 [[Marathi language|Marathi]] TV Series ''[[Swami]]'', Madhavrao's Character was portrayed by Ravindra Mannkani.
* In the 1987 [[Marathi language|Marathi]] TV series ''Swami'', Madhavrao's character was portrayed by [[Ravindra Mankani|Ravindra Mannkani]].
* In the 1994 [[Hindi]] TV series ''[[The Great Maratha]]'', Madhavrao's character was portrayed by Rahul Awasthee.
* In the 1994 [[Hindi]] TV series ''[[The Great Maratha]]'', Madhavrao's character was portrayed by Rahul Awasthee.
* [[Alok Rajwade]] portrayed Madhavrao in the 2014 Indian Marathi-language historical drama, [[Rama Madhav]]
* [[Alok Rajwade]] portrayed Madhavrao in the 2014 Indian Marathi-language historical drama, ''[[Rama Madhav]]''
* Chinmay Patwardhan plays Madhavrao in the Indian Marathi-language television serial ''Swamini'' which airs on Colors Marathi.
* Chinmay Patwardhan plays Madhavrao in the Indian Marathi-language television serial ''[[Swamini]]'' which airs on [[Colors Marathi]].
*''Swami'', a Marathi book written by [[Ranjit Desai]] on the life of Madhavrao.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.bookganga.com/eBooks/Books/details/5158042450242834250?BookName=Swami |title = स्वामी-Swami by Ranjeet Desai - Mehta Publishing House - BookGanga.com}}</ref><ref>''Swami'',Mehta Publishing House {{ISBN|978-817-766-644-1}}</ref>
 
* "श्रीमंत माधवराव पेशवा: व्यक्ति आणि कार्य" A Marathi Political biography written by historians Guruprasad Kanitkar and Parag Pimpalkhare.
==See also==
* [[Mahadaji Pant Guruji]]
* [[Maratha Peshwa and Generals from Bhat Family]]
* [[Maratha emperors]]


== References ==
==Further reading==
* ''Swami'', a Marathi book written by [[Ranjit Desai]] on the life of Madhavrao.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.bookganga.com/eBooks/Books/details/5158042450242834250?BookName=Swami |title = स्वामी-Swami by Ranjeet Desai - Mehta Publishing House - BookGanga.com}}</ref><ref>''Swami'', Mehta Publishing House {{ISBN|978-817-766-644-1}}</ref>
* ''The Mastery of Hindustan - Triumphs & Travels of Madhavrao Peshwa'', a book written by Uday S. Kulkarni on the life and tenure of Madhavrao Peshwa. ({{ISBN|978-8192076935}}; published in 2022)<ref>{{cite book| title=Buy The Mastery of Hindustan – Triumphs & Travails of Madhavrao Peshwa Book Online at Low Prices in India | id={{ASIN|8192076938|country=in}}}}</ref>
* ''Pratishodh Panipatcha'', a Marathi novel written by Kaustubh Kasture on the life of Madhavrao Peshwa. (published in 2019)<ref>{{cite web | title=Pratishodha Panipatcha | website=BookGanga.com | url=https://www.bookganga.com/ebooks/Books/details/5350184858427366306?BookName=Pratishodha%20Panipatcha | access-date=8 April 2024}}</ref>
 
==References==
{{reflist}}
{{reflist}}
==Sources==
* {{Citation|last=Rice|first=Lewis|authorlink=Lewis Rice|title=Mysore: A Gazetteer Compiled for the Government, Volume II, Mysore, By Districts|year = 1897b|publisher=Westminster: Archibald Constable and Company. Pp. xii, 581|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=FR1CAAAAIAAJ}}
* [[Ranjit Desai]], ''Swami'' (26th Edition March 2007, published by Mehta Publishers, Marathi Literature).
* [[Ranjit Desai]], ''Swami'' (26th Edition March 2007, published by Mehta Publishers, Marathi Literature).
* Govind Sakharam Sardesai, ''A New History of Marathas''
* Govind Sakharam Sardesai, ''A New History of Marathas''
* [http://www.ibiblio.org/britishraj/Duff.html   James Grant Duff, ''History of the Marathas'' London, Longman, Rees, Orme, Brown, and Green (1826)]
* [http://www.ibiblio.org/britishraj/Duff.html James Grant Duff, ''History of the Marathas'' London, Longman, Rees, Orme, Brown, and Green (1826)]
* [http://m.maharashtratimes.com/maharashtra/pune/madhavrao-peshve-drawings/articleshow/50690281.cms ''Maharashtra Times'', ''माधवराव पेशव्यांचे चित्र आले उजेडात'']
* [http://m.maharashtratimes.com/maharashtra/pune/madhavrao-peshve-drawings/articleshow/50690281.cms ''Maharashtra Times'', ''माधवराव पेशव्यांचे चित्र आले उजेडात'']
*[https://www.amazon.in/dp/9390129028/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_glt_fabc_BTPK3WNAQ04XM3JTRPXC श्रीमंत माधवराव पेशवा:व्यक्ति आणि कार्य, लेखक: गुरुप्रसाद कानिटकर, पराग पिंपळखरे]
* [https://www.amazon.in/dp/9390129028/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_glt_fabc_BTPK3WNAQ04XM3JTRPXC श्रीमंत माधवराव पेशवा:व्यक्ति आणि कार्य, लेखक: गुरुप्रसाद कानिटकर, पराग पिंपळखरे]
 
== Further reading ==
* [[Ranjit Desai]], ''Swami'' {{in lang|mr}}, a historical novel
 
{{Main article|Peshwa#Appointed_and_Hereditary_Peshwas}}
 
==See also==
* [[Mahadaji Pant Guruji]]
* [[Maratha Peshwa and Generals from Bhat Family]]
* [[Maratha emperors]]


{{MarathaEmpire}}
{{MarathaEmpire}}
Line 151: Line 168:
{{DEFAULTSORT:Madhavrao 01}}
{{DEFAULTSORT:Madhavrao 01}}
[[Category:Peshwa dynasty]]
[[Category:Peshwa dynasty]]
[[Category:People of the Maratha Empire]]
[[Category:People from the Maratha Empire]]
[[Category:Marathi people]]
[[Category:Marathi people]]
[[Category:18th-century Indian monarchs]]
[[Category:18th-century Indian monarchs]]
Line 157: Line 174:
[[Category:1745 births]]
[[Category:1745 births]]
[[Category:1772 deaths]]
[[Category:1772 deaths]]
[[Category:Indian royalty]]
[[Category:Indian military leaders]]
[[Category:Hindu monarchs]]
[[Category:People from Pune district]]
[[Category:People from Maharashtra]]
[[Category:Maratha Empire]]
[[Category:Maratha generals]]
[[Category:People from Pune]]

Latest revision as of 00:49, 29 March 2026


Shrimant Peshwa
Madhavrao I
Portrait of Madhavrao I by Bhoj Raj at the Yale Center for British Art c. 1763
9th Peshwa of the Maratha Empire
In office
23 June 1761 – 18 November 1772
MonarchRajaram II
Preceded byBalaji Baji Rao
Succeeded byNarayanrao
Personal details
Born
Madhavrao Bhat

(1745-02-15)15 February 1745
Savanur, Savanur State
(modern day Karnataka, India)
Died18 November 1772(1772-11-18) (aged 27)
Theur, Pune, Maratha Confederacy
(modern day Pune district, Maharashtra, India)
Spouse(s)
(
m. 1758)
Parents
RelativesVishwasrao (elder brother)
Narayanrao (younger brother)
Sadashivrao Bhau (uncle)
Raghunathrao (uncle)
Shamsher Bahadur I (uncle)
Bajirao I (grandfather)
Kashibai (grandmother)
ResidenceShaniwar Wada, Pune, Maratha Confederacy
Signature
Military service
Battles/wars

Madhavrao I (15 February 1745 – 18 November 1772), also known as Madhavrao Ballal Bhat (marathi: माधवराव पेशवे), was the ninth Peshwa of the Maratha Empire, ruling from 1761 until his death in 1772. He was the second son of Balaji Baji Rao and the grandson of Bajirao I. Madhavrao assumed the office of Peshwa at the age of sixteen following the Marathas' defeat in the Third Battle of Panipat in 1761. His reign marked a period of political and administrative recovery known as the "Maratha Resurrection", during which the empire reasserted authority over territories lost following the Third Battle of Panipat.[1]

Madhavrao restructured the administration, reduced corruption, and revived the empire’s finances. Under his leadership, the Marathas reasserted their authority over several regions of western and southern Indian subcontinent, notably the Carnatic region, Mysore, and Hyderabad through administrative reforms and military campaigns.

Madhavrao has been credited for maintaining unity within the Maratha Confederacy through diplomacy and political negotiation. He promoted trade, sought to improve revenue collection, and introduced measures aimed at supporting agricultural stability during his time as the prime minister.

Early life and ascendancy to Peshwa[edit | edit source]

Madhavrao I was the second son of Peshwa Balaji Bajirao, also known as Nanasaheb, and his wife Gopikabai. He was born in Savnur on 15 February 1745.[2] He was the grandson of Bajirao I and Kashibai, as the younger brother of Vishwasrao and the elder brother of Narayanrao.

Madhavrao's early years were marked by the political turbulence that followed the Third Battle of Panipat in 1761, during which his elder brother Vishwasrao and uncle Sadashivrao Bhau were killed. His father Balaji Baji Rao died shortly afterward.

Following his father’s death, Madhavrao, while only sixteen years old, was declared the next Peshwa of the Maratha Confederacy on 21 June 1761.[3] His paternal uncle Raghunathrao (also known as Raghoba Dada) initially served as regent and exercised considerable influence in the early years of his rule.[citation needed]

In 1753, Madhavrao married Ramabai, the daughter of Trimbakrao Bapusaheb Patwardhan, a respected Maratha noble from the Pathwardhan family. When Madhavrao died in 1772 after a prolonged illness, Ramabai chose to perform sati, immolating herself on his funeral pyre at Theur.[4]

Disputes with Raghunath Rao[edit | edit source]

Main article: Battle of Alegaon

On 22 August 1762, Raghunath Rao moved to Vadgaon Maval and assembled an army in opposition to the Peshwa. To finance his campaign, Raghunath Rao’s forces reportedly plundered nearby villages. In response to these developments, Madhavrao declared war on his uncle on 7 November 1762. However, he soon proposed a peace treaty in an effort to avoid prolonged civil conflict.

Raghunath Rao initially agreed to the terms, but shortly after the treaty was signed, he broke the treaty and attacked Madhavrao's camp. Madhavrao was defeated in the Battle of Alegaon on 12 November 1762 and subsequently surrendered near Alegaon.[5]

Following the surrender, Raghunath Rao assumed control of the Peshwa administration with the assistance of Sakharam Bapu Bokil. He sought to strengthen his position by forming an alliance with the Nizam of Hyderabad, but this alliance proved short-lived, as the Nizam began encroaching upon Maratha territories. Recognising the growing threat, Madhavrao appealed to his uncle to take action, but when diplomacy failed, he resumed command of the Maratha forces.[citation needed]

Under Madhavrao’s leadership, the Peshwa army marched toward Aurangabad on 7 March 1763, targeting the Nizam’s domains. After several months of maneuvering , the opposing forces met at the Battle of Rakshasbhuvan near Aurangabad on 10 August 1763.[6] The Nizam’s army suffered heavy losses and was forced to retreat, marking a decisive victory for Madhavrao and a significant step in restoring Maratha authority in the Deccan.[7]

  • A handwritten letter by Madhavrao I
    A handwritten letter by Madhavrao I
  • Continued letter by Madhavrao I
    Continued letter by Madhavrao I

The war against Hyder Ali and Mysore[edit | edit source]

See also: Maratha–Mysore War, Battle of Jadi Hanwati, and Battle of Rattihalli

On January 1764, Madhavrao I reorganised his forces and launched a renewed campaign against Hyder Ali Of Mysore. This expedition was commanded by several prominent Maratha generals, including Gopalrao Patwardhan, Murarirao Ghorpade, Vinchurkar, and Naro Shankar. Although Raghunath Rao was invited to participate in the campaign, he declined and instead withdrew to Nashik. The campaign lasted for nearly a year and extended across large parts of the former Sira Subah in present-day Karnataka.

Hyder Ali avoided capture during the campaign, though the Marathas gained territory in the region. In November 1764, with the assistance of Gopalrao and Anand Rao Patwardhan, the Marathas captured the Dharwad Fort, leaving only Bankapura under Hyder Ali’s control. Madhavrao’s forces also defeated Hyder Ali in several other engagements, including the Battle of Jadi Hanvatti and the Battle of Rattihalli.

As the campaign continued, Madhavrao sought additional support from Raghunath Rao, but his uncle instead entered into a separate peace agreement with Hyder Ali.[8] In 1767, Madhavrao launched a second expedition against Mysore. Supported by defectors from Hyder Ali’s camp, Madhavrao won notable victories at Sira and Madhugiri. During the siege of Madhugiri, he discovered Queen Virammaji, the last ruler of the Keladi Nayaka Kingdom, and her young son, who had been imprisoned by Hyder Ali. Madhavrao arranged for their release and sent them to Pune for protection.[9] The Marathas subsequently incorporated the Sira Subah into their dominions, consolidating their authority over large parts of southern India.[10]

Alliance with Nizam[edit | edit source]

Memorial commemorating Madhavrao I at Peshwe Park in Pune, India

During Madhavrao’s reign, the Maratha Empire continued its efforts to reassert control and expand its territories in northern Indian subcontinent. Raghunath Rao, along with the Holkars and Shindes (Scindias), led a northern expedition toward Delhi to extend Maratha influence in the region.

Meanwhile, Madhavrao sought to consolidate the empire’s position in the Deccan by reconciling with his former adversary, Nizam Ali Khan, Asaf Jah II.[11] The Nizam also expressed willingness to improve relations with the Marathas, and the two leaders met at Kurumkhed on 5 February 1766, marking the beginning of a period of relative peace between the two powers.

Relations with the East India Company[edit | edit source]

On 3 December 1767, a representative of the East India Company, Thomas Mostyn, arrived at Pune with a proposal to establish British military presence in Vasai and Sashti in exchange for the territories of Bidnur and Sonda, but the offer was declined by Madhavrao.[12]

Raghunath Rao faces house arrest[edit | edit source]

Although Raghunath Rao led an expedition northward in an attempt to expand the Maratha Empire, the campaign did not achieve its intended success. Upon returning to Anandvalli, Raghunath Rao once again sought to consolidate power by forming alliances with certain generals and officials to challenge his nephew, Madhavrao I. His repeated efforts to undermine Madhavrao’s authority created significant instability within the Peshwa administration.

In response to Raghunath Rao's maneuvers, Madhavrao mobilised forces on June 10, 1768 and confronted Raghunath Rao. Raghunath Rao was defeated, captured, and placed under house arrest at the Shaniwar Wada. His key advisor and minister, Sakharam Bapu Bokil, was also detained.

This decisive action allowed Madhavrao to reassert his authority over the Maratha administration. It also sent a clear message to other factions within the empire that attempts to challenge the young Peshwa would not be tolerated. Following Raghunath Rao’s confinement, Madhavrao focused on consolidating internal governance; strengthening administrative institutions; and continuing military campaigns to recover Maratha territories lost after the Third Battle of Panipat.

The capture of Raghunath Rao marked a turning point in Madhavrao’s reign, as it neutralised a major internal threat and enabled him to pursue both northern and southern campaigns without fear of immediate internal rebellion.[13]

Northern campaign[edit | edit source]

See also: Capture of Delhi (1771)

In 1769, Peshwa Madhavrao I sent a large Maratha army under the command of Ramchandra Ganesh Kanade and Visaji Krushna Biniwale to recover territories lost in the north following the Third Battle of Panipat. They were joined by prominent generals Mahadji Shinde and Tukoji Rao Holkar. The Maratha forces marched towards Udaipur, where the local Rajput rulers agreed to pay a tribute of 60 lakh rupees. On 5 April 1770, the Marathas defeated the Jats of Bharatpur.

In October 1770, the Marathas defeated Najib Khan Rohilla, one of the primary opponents of the Marathas in the Third Battle of Panipat. In November 1771, Visaji Krushna Biniwale was appointed in charge of the Maratha Northern Front by Peshwa Madhavrao I. In February 1772, Biniwale and Mahadji Shinde defeated the Rohillas of Rohilkhand led by Zabita Khan at Shukratal. They desecrated Najib Khan’s tomb, looted artillery and an additional tribute of 40 lakh rupees. Mahadji Shinde emerged as an important military leader during this campaign.[14]

During the northern campaign, Biniwale persuaded the Mughal Emperor Shah Alam II to return to Delhi in 1771 and reclaim his throne.[15] Pleased with Biniwale’s victories in Rohilkhand, Madhavrao reportedly stated in his will that golden flowers should be showered upon Biniwale upon his arrival at Pune’s borders.

The Maratha capture of Delhi in 1771, led by Mahadji Shinde, restored Mughal emperor Shah Alam II to the throne at the Red Fort under Maratha protection.[16][17] The Marathas captured Delhi from Najib Khan’s son Zabita Khan, who had been appointed by the Afghans. This campaign re-established Maratha supremacy in northern India and recovered much of the territory lost after the Third Battle of Panipat.

Shah Alam II, who had spent six years in Allahabad Fort, was escorted to Delhi under Maratha protection. During their stay, the Marathas constructed two temples in Allahabad, including the Alopi Devi Mandir.

In January 1772, Shah Alam II, perceiving Maratha territorial ambitions, ordered his general Najaf Khan to expel them from Delhi. In response, Tukoji Rao Holkar and Visaji Krushna Biniwale attacked and defeated Mughal forces. The Marathas received imperial sanads for Kora and Allahabad. They then attempted to extend influence over Oudh, but faced resistance from Shuja-ud-Daula and the British. In the ensuing Battle of Ramghat, the Marathas were forced to withdraw due to the sudden death of Peshwa Madhavrao I and the civil war in Pune over his succession.[citation needed]

Death[edit | edit source]

Cremation of Madhavrao I and sati of his wife Ramabai

In June 1770, the Peshwas planned a third campaign against Hyder Ali, but at the age of 27 Madhavrao I’s health began to decline due to tuberculosis,[citation needed][original research?] also referred to in contemporary sources as "Raj-Yakshma" or the "prince of diseases".[18]

Madhavrao was forced to return from Miraj as the disease progressed. An English physician was consulted, and Madhavrao followed the recommended treatment, but his condition did not improve. He spent his final days at the Ganesha Chintamani Temple in Theur. Historian James Grant Duff argued that the death of Madhavrao I had a more significant impact on the Maratha Empire's decline than the defeat at the Third Battle of Panipat.[citation needed]

Madhavrao I died on 18 November 1772, around 8 a.m., at the temple premises of Chintamani in Theur. His funeral was attended by thousands to pay their last respects. He was cremated on the banks of the nearby river, approximately half a mile from the temple. A small stone memorial was laid there.[citation needed] His wife, Ramabai, committed sati during the cremation.[citation needed]

Character and legacy[edit | edit source]

Contemporary accounts often describe Madhavrao I as having focused on administrative efficiency and internal stability. He was known for his openness, shrewd decisions, and efforts to resolve internal disputes within the Maratha Confederacy. Under his leadership, the Maratha Empire recovered from the devastating losses of the Third Battle of Panipat and regained supremacy in northern Indian subcontinent.

He personally participated in military campaigns and administrative reforms, earning the loyalty and respect of generals such as Mahadaji Shinde, Tukoji Rao Holkar, and Visaji Krushna Biniwale. Madhavrao’s diplomatic acumen was evident in his ability to balance relations with the Nizam of Hyderabad and navigate the growing influence of the East India Company without ceding significant control over Maratha territories.

Historian R. C. Majumdar described him as one of the most effective Peshwas of the Maratha state.[citation needed]

In popular culture[edit | edit source]

See also[edit | edit source]

Further reading[edit | edit source]

  • Swami, a Marathi book written by Ranjit Desai on the life of Madhavrao.[19][20]
  • The Mastery of Hindustan - Triumphs & Travels of Madhavrao Peshwa, a book written by Uday S. Kulkarni on the life and tenure of Madhavrao Peshwa. (ISBN 978-8192076935; published in 2022)[21]
  • Pratishodh Panipatcha, a Marathi novel written by Kaustubh Kasture on the life of Madhavrao Peshwa. (published in 2019)[22]

References[edit | edit source]

  1. ↑ "Madhavrao I and Maratha Resurrection". HistoryMaps. Retrieved 28 November 2025.
  2. ↑ "Reviver of the Maratha Empire: Peshwa Madhavrao I". hindupost.in. 15 November 2024. Retrieved 18 March 2025.
  3. ↑ Majumdar, Ramesh Chandra (1991). The Maratha Supremacy (2nd ed.). Mumbai: Bharatiya Vidya Bhavan. p. 201.
  4. ↑ Sardesai, Govind Sakharam (1948). New History of the Marathas, Volume III: Sunset over Maharashtra (1772–1848). Phoenix Publications. p. 10.
  5. ↑ "Peshwa Madhav Rao [1745–1772]: Maratha–Mysore Wars, Rohilkhand Campaign, Hyder Ali". BYJU’S. Retrieved 12 March 2025.
  6. ↑ SarDesai, D.R. (2007). India: The Definitive History. Boulder, Colo.: Westview Press. pp. 194–195. ISBN 9780813343525.
  7. ↑ Mallik, Samar Kumar (2018). Adhunik Bharoter Dersho Bochor (1707–1857) (in Bengali) (18th ed.). Kolkata: New West Bengal Publishers. p. 82.
  8. ↑ "Peshwa Madhav Rao – The Man Who Revived the Maratha Power". 17 September 2023. Retrieved 20 September 2023.
  9. ↑ Mehta, Jaswant Lal (2005). Advanced Study in the History of Modern India 1707–1813. Sterling Publishers Pvt. Ltd. p.458.
  10. ↑ Rice 1897b, p. 166
  11. ↑ Furber, Holden; Sastri, K. A. Nilakanta (March 1956). "History of India. Part III: Modern India". Pacific Affairs. 29 (1): 87. doi:10.2307/3035476. ISSN 0030-851X.
  12. ↑ Anil Chandra Banerjee (1943). Peshwa Madhav Rao I. A. Mukherjee & Bros. p. 106.
  13. ↑ R. E. E. (October 1932). "A History of the Maratha People. By C. A. Kincaid and D. B. Parasnis. 8½ × 5½, pp. xi + 503, 17 ills., 3 maps. London: Oxford University Press, 1931. 16s". Journal of the Royal Asiatic Society. 64 (4): 1062–1064. doi:10.1017/s0035869x00154383. ISSN 1356-1863.
  14. ↑ Rathod, N. G. (1994). The Great Maratha Mahadaji Scindia. Sarup & Sons.
  15. ↑ Duff, James Grant (1873). A History of the Mahrattas. Times of India. p. 350.
  16. ↑ Kadiyan, Chand Singh (2019). "Panipat in History: A Study of Inscriptions." Proceedings of the Indian History Congress, 64: 403–419.
  17. ↑ Rathod, N. G. (1994). The Great Maratha Mahadaji Scindia. Sarup & Sons. p. 8.
  18. ↑ "Concept of Disease in Ayurveda – Ayurvedic Disease Synonyms". siddhiyoga.com. 20 December 2021. Retrieved 12 March 2025.
  19. ↑ "स्वामी-Swami by Ranjeet Desai - Mehta Publishing House - BookGanga.com".
  20. ↑ Swami, Mehta Publishing House ISBN 978-817-766-644-1
  21. ↑ Buy The Mastery of Hindustan – Triumphs & Travails of Madhavrao Peshwa Book Online at Low Prices in India. ASIN 8192076938.
  22. ↑ "Pratishodha Panipatcha". BookGanga.com. Retrieved 8 April 2024.

Sources[edit | edit source]

Retrieved from "https://en.bharatpedia.org/w/index.php?title=Madhavrao_I&oldid=457002"
Discover more