Baji Rao I

Who was Baji Rao I?

Baji Rao Ballal Balaji Bhat, also known as Baji Rao I, was a noted general who served as Peshwa to the fourth Maratha Chhatrapati Shahu from 1720 until Baji Rao's death. He is also known as Thorale Baji Rao. He was also popular with the nickname 'Rau'.

Despite belonging to the Brahmin caste that had hitherto engaged primarily in priestly or administrative duties, Bajirao took up the charge of leading his troops. He is credited with expanding the Maratha Empire, especially in the north, which contributed to its reaching a zenith during his son's reign twenty years after Baji Rao's death. Baji Rao is acknowledged as the most influential of the nine Peshwas from the Bhat family.