Question

The first Peshwa was_________
A. Balaji Vishwanath
B. Balaji Baji Raao
C. Baji Rao
D. None of this

Answer 1

Hint: Peshwa is a title given to the Prime Minister of the Maratha empire.. Peshwas generally operated under the Chhatrapati(ruler). All the Peshwas from the rule of Chhatrapati Shivaji, Sambhaji and Rajaram belong to the Deshastha Brahmin community.

Complete step by step by step answer: The first Peshwa was Balaji Vishwanath. He helped the Syed brothers in overthrowing the Mughal emperor of Farrukhsiyar in 1719. He reigned from 1713-1720. He belonged to the Bhat family. Balaji Vishwanath was called the Second founder of the Maratha state because of his contribution towards the empire . While looking for work,he served as a mercenary trooper under several marathi generals.
Balaji Vishwanath helped the Maratha ruler Sahu to consolidate his control of his kingdom which was being ransacked by the Mughals under Aurangazeb. Aurangazeb continued his attack on the Marathas in the Deccan for 21 years. Balaji Vishwanath established a complex administrative system for the Marathas. He also secured the release of Shahu’s mother and half brother from the Mughal captivity.
Looking at the options:
Option A: Balaji Vishwanath was the first Peshwa from the Bhat family. This is the correct answer.
Option B: Balaji Baji Rao was the third Peshwa ruler. Therefore this is an incorrect answer.
Option C: Baji Rao was the second Peshwa. This too is an incorrect answer.
Option D: None of these is not a correct option because option A is the correct answer.
Option’A’ is the correct answer.

Note: While answering the questions do not get confused between the chronological order of the Peshwa. Balaji Vishwanath was a Chitpavan Hindu Brahmin. He was a great Peshwa who made rich contributions to the Maratha empire.