Q. Which of the following events marks the critical Shift in Power and Leadership Transition within the Maratha Empire, fundamentally changing the structure from a Chhatrapati-centric state to a Peshwa-centric Confederacy?

[A] The formal coronation of Shivaji as Chhatrapati at Raigad in 1674 CE.

[B] The release of Shahu from Mughal captivity by Bahadur Shah I in 1707 CE.

[C] The appointment of Balaji Vishwanath Bhatt as the hereditary Peshwa in 1713 CE.

[D] The Treaty of Sangola (1750 CE), signed during the reign of Balaji Baji Rao.

Answer: D
Notes:

Explanation:

  • (d) Correct. While the power shift began with the appointment of Balaji Vishwanath (c), the Treaty of Sangola made the shift legal and formal. It transferred the executive and military authority from the Chhatrapati (who remained a figurehead at Satara) to the Peshwa (who was now the de facto ruler based in Pune), giving him complete control over the administration and the military command.
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