Baji Rao I
Explanation
The expansion of the Maratha Empire in the early 18th century was primarily driven by the Peshwas, who became the de facto rulers of the Maratha state. While Shivaji Maharaj laid the foundation in the Deccan, the northward expansion beyond the Narmada and Vindhyas occurred during the era of the Peshwas, coinciding with the decline of the Mughal Empire.
Detailed Analysis:
- Shivaji (Incorrect): Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj (1630–1680) founded the Maratha Kingdom and consolidated power primarily in the Deccan and Konkan regions. While he challenged the Mughals, his operations were largely confined to the south of the Narmada river.
- Baji Rao I Baji Rao I (Correct): Peshwa Baji Rao I (1720–1740) is credited with transforming the Maratha Kingdom into an Empire. He initiated the policy of northward expansion with the famous goal of "striking at the trunk of the withering tree" (the Mughal Empire). Under his leadership, Maratha armies crossed the Vindhyas, establishing dominance over Malwa (1728), Bundelkhand (1729), and Gujarat. He aided Chhatrasal Bundela against the Mughals, securing a foothold in Bundelkhand.
- Balaji Vishwanath Balaji Vishwanath (Incorrect): The first hereditary Peshwa (1713–1720), he focused on consolidating power within the Maratha court and securing the rights of Chauth and Sardeshmukhi from the Mughals in the Deccan, rather than territorial expansion into the north.
- Sambhaji (Incorrect): The son and successor of Shivaji, Sambhaji (1680–1689) spent his reign defending the Maratha kingdom against the full-scale invasion of Emperor Aurangzeb in the Deccan.
Key Takeaway:
Baji Rao I was the greatest warrior Peshwa who expanded Maratha power beyond the Vindhyas, annexing territories in Malwa, Gujarat, and Bundelkhand, and effectively challenging the Mughal authority in North India.