Nana Fadnavis earned the title of Machiavelli due to his exceptional shrewdness and statecraft. For over two decades, he served as the “brain” of the Maratha Empire, managing the delicate balance of power between rival sardars like Scindia and Holkar. His diplomatic genius was most evident during the First Anglo-Maratha War, where he successfully coordinated a multi-pronged resistance that forced the British to sign the Treaty of Salbai. Although he was criticized for his tight control over the young Peshwa, his administrative foresight and ability to outwit foreign and domestic enemies preserved Maratha independence during a chaotic era.