Explanations:The Maratha Empire, founded by Chhatrapati Shivaji in the 17th century, was a significant power in the Indian subcontinent. After the death of Shivaji, the empire faced a period of decline and internal strife. It was during this period that Balaji Vishwanath, the first Peshwa (Prime Minister) under Chhatrapati Shahu, played a crucial role in reviving and expanding the Maratha Empire, earning him the title of the "second founder of the Maratha State."
Balaji Vishwanath was appointed as the Peshwa in 1713, and his tenure marked a significant turning point in the history of the Maratha Empire. He was instrumental in consolidating the Maratha power and expanding their influence across the Indian subcontinent. His administrative and military reforms were pivotal in strengthening the Maratha State. He reorganized the Maratha army, improved the financial system, and established a strong administrative framework that laid the foundation for the Maratha resurgence.
Under Balaji Vishwanath's leadership, the Maratha Empire began to recover from the setbacks it had faced. He successfully negotiated with the Mughal Empire and other regional powers, securing important territories and resources for the Marathas. His diplomatic skills and strategic vision were crucial in restoring the Maratha State to its former glory and setting the stage for further expansion under his successors.
It is important to note that while other figures such as Baji Rao I, Sambhaji, and Chhatrapati Shahu were significant in their own right, they did not play the same role in the revival and expansion of the Maratha State as Balaji Vishwanath did. Baji Rao I, for instance, was a great military leader and continued the expansion of the Maratha Empire, but he did not initiate the revival. Sambhaji, as the second Chhatrapati, faced significant challenges and did not contribute to the revival of the Maratha State. Chhatrapati Shahu, while an important ruler, was the patron under whom Balaji Vishwanath served and played a crucial role in the revival.
Thus, Balaji Vishwanath's contributions to the Maratha State are widely recognized, and he is often referred to as the "second founder" due to his pivotal role in reviving and expanding the Maratha Empire during a critical period in its history.