Q. Which of the following statements accurately describes the position and evolution of the Peshwa in the Maratha administration?

[A] The Peshwa was the equivalent of the Mughal Diwan-i-Kul (Chief Revenue Minister) and his role remained strictly financial until the death of Shahu.

[B] The office of the Peshwa was made hereditary during the reign of Shahu, who was himself completely dependent on the Peshwa for military leadership.

[C] The Peshwa was initially the Chief Minister and a member of the Ashta Pradhan, but his office became synonymous with the Chhatrapati after the Treaty of Sangola.

[D] Unlike the Chhatrapati, the Peshwa had a permanent staff of administrators but lacked the authority to lead armies in the field.

Answer: B
Notes:

Explanation:

  • (a) Incorrect. The Peshwa was the Prime Minister (head of administration), not just the Chief Revenue Minister. The position became executive head much earlier.
  • (b) Correct. Shahu made the Peshwa’s office hereditary (starting with Balaji Vishwanath), and being largely confined to Satara, he relied entirely on the Peshwa (Baji Rao I and his son) for all military and political expansion.
  • (c) Incorrect. The Treaty of Sangola (1750 CE) formalized the Peshwa’s de facto power over the Chhatrapati, but the position did not become “synonymous” with the title of Chhatrapati. The Chhatrapati remained the ceremonial head.
  • (d) Incorrect. The Peshwas were famous for their military prowess, especially Baji Rao I.
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