Important Rulers of the Maratha Empire, List, Rulers

Important Rulers of the Maratha Empire include rulers under whose influence and rule the Maratha Empire became one of the most powerful kingdoms in Indian history. Under the leadership of these rulers, the Maratha empire not only defeated powerful invaders like the British but also strengthened its own individual identity. Established in the 17th century, the Maratha empire played an important role in framing the cultural and political landscape of India. The marathas are remembered for their smartness, unique strategies, military skills and various contributions. In this article, we are going to cover the important maratha rulers of India and their contributions in strengthening the empire. 

Maratha Empire Overview

The Marathas were known to constitute a powerful empire during the 17th-19th century period. Founded in 1674 by Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, the empire was consequently led by powerful leaders who eventually contributed to the growth. The empire is not only remembered for its victory over the Mughal rule but also as a strong force against the British colonists. 

The foundation of maratha rule can be traced back to the strong disciplined military and administrative system introduced by Shivaji. By the mid 18th century, the marathas had established a strong control over various territories including Tamil Nadu and Punjab. 

List of Important Rulers of Maratha Empire

The Maratha Empire saw the rule of several great leaders who shaped its destiny. Here is a list of some of the most important rulers of the Maratha Empire:

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Important Chhatrapati Rulers

The Maratha Empire designated the title of Chhatrapati to the supreme ruler. They were the central figures in Maratha leadership who played an important role in establishment, administration and expansion of the empire. The title of Chhatrapati Shivaji was given to the following rulers: 

• Chhatrapati Shivaji (1674-1680)
  • Founder of the Maratha Empire and crowned Chhatrapati in 1674.
  • Introduced Swarajya (self-rule) and an efficient administrative system.
  • Built a powerful navy to protect the Konkan coastline.
  • Conducted successful military campaigns against the Mughals and Bijapur Sultanate.
• Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj (1681-1689)
  • Son of Shivaji, known for his bravery and resistance against the Mughals.
  • Defeated the Portuguese and Chikka Deva Raya of Mysore.
  • Fought against Aurangzeb but was captured and executed in 1689.
• Chhatrapati Rajaram Maharaj (1689-1700)
  • He was the younger brother of Sambhaji. 
  • Took refuge in Gingee Fort in Tamil Nadu after Sambhaji’s death.
  • Led guerrilla warfare against the Mughals to sustain Maratha rule.
• Chhatrapati Shahu Maharaj (1707-1749)
  • Grandson of Shivaji, secured the throne, becoming the fifth Chhatrapati following the short reign of Shivaji II.
  • Introduced the Peshwa system, granting administrative control to Balaji Vishwanath.
  • Expanded Maratha influence across India

Important Peshwa Rulers

The Peshwas were influential leaders of the Maratha Empire, shaping its administration, military, and political strategies. Originally appointed as prime ministers, they gradually rose to become the de facto rulers in the 18th century. Below is a list of the Peshwas of the Maratha Empire

• Balaji Vishwanath (Peshwa 1713-1720)
  • First Hereditary Peshwa from the Bhat Family.
  • Strengthened the empire’s financial and military systems.
  • Negotiated the release of Shahu Maharaj from Mughal captivity.
• Baji Rao I (Peshwa 1720-1740)
  • A brilliant military strategist who expanded the Maratha Empire and established the Maratha Confederacy.
  • Defeated the Mughals and expanded Maratha rule to Malwa, Gujarat, and Bundelkhand.
  • Marathas became the dominant power in India during his reign.
• Balaji Baji Rao (Nana Saheb) (Peshwa 1740-1761)
  • Continued Maratha expansion and established dominance in North India.
  • Led the Marathas during the Third Battle of Panipat (1761) against Ahmad Shah Abdali.
• Madhav Rao I (Peshwa 1761-1772)
  • Revived the Maratha Empire after the loss at Panipat.
  • Focused on stabilizing the empire, reviving its finances, and re-establishing law and order
  • Strengthened administration and restored Maratha influence.
• Mahadji Shinde (Shinde Dynasty, 1761-1794)
  • Controlled Delhi and played a major role in North Indian politics.
  • Defended Maratha interests against the British and Afghans.
• Baji Rao II (Peshwa 1796-1818)
  • The last Peshwa of the Maratha Empire.
  • Defeated by the British in the Third Anglo-Maratha War (1817-1818), leading to the empire’s collapse.

Difference Between Chhatrapati and Peshwa

The Peshwa and Chhatrapati were two different positions in the Maratha Empire. The Chhatrapati was associated with being the sovereign ruler, while the Peshwa was considered to be the prime minister responsible for managing the military and administrative affairs. Over the years, the Peshwas gained more prominence over the Chhatrapati, due to their hold over the Maratha administration. The shift in power eventually led to the political shaping of the Maratha Empire.