Balaji Vishwanath is called the Second Founder of the Maratha State because he revived Maratha power after years of Mughal pressure and internal disorder. As the first effective Peshwa, he stabilized administration, negotiated important treaties with the Mughals, secured Chauth and Sardeshmukhi rights, strengthened finances, reorganized the army and diplomacy and laid the foundation for future Maratha expansion. Answer: (C) Balaji Vishwanath
Who is called the ‘Second Founder of the Maratha State’? (A) Rajaram (B) Bajirao I (C) Balaji Vishwanath (D) Balaji Bajirao
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Balaji Vishwanath earned the title of Second Founder of the Maratha State due to his crucial role in rebuilding the Maratha Empire after Aurangzeb’s death. The state was weakened by long wars and internal divisions, but he restored unity and authority. As Peshwa, he negotiated the Lonavala settlement, securing Chauth and Sardeshmukhi from the Mughals. He reorganized revenue, strengthened the military, improved diplomacy with regional powers and brought stability to the administration. His leadership transformed the Peshwa office into the real center of power. The strong foundation he created enabled later Maratha expansion under Bajirao I and others.