Narayan Rao, also known as Narayanrao Bajirao, was a prominent figure in the Maratha Empire during the 18th century. He was the fifth Peshwa of the Maratha Empire, serving from 1772 to 1773. Narayan Rao’s short-lived reign was marked by political intrigue and a tragic end, making his rule a significant turning point in Maratha’s history.

Early Life and Family Background: Narayan Rao was born on 10 August 1755 in Pune, Maharashtra. He belonged to the influential Peshwa family, being the eldest son of Peshwa Raghunath Rao, who was the younger brother of the previous Peshwa, Madhavrao.

Political Turmoil and Succession Disputes: During Narayan Rao’s childhood, the Maratha Empire witnessed a period of political turmoil and succession disputes. After the death of Madhavrao, the powerful ministers and factions within the Maratha court engaged in power struggles to control the empire.

Narayan Rao’s father, Raghunath Rao, sought to become the Peshwa and took advantage of the power vacuum. However, his claim was contested by Narayan Rao’s uncle, Narayanrao’s paternal aunt, Anandi bai, and her faction. This led to a series of conflicts and power shifts within the Maratha court.

Assassination and Aftermath: Amidst the succession disputes, Narayan Rao was married to Gangabai, the daughter of a nobleman named Sakharam Bapu. However, the marriage became a point of contention as Anandibai and her faction feared that Narayan Rao and Gangabai would produce an heir who could challenge their claim to power.

On 30 August 1773, Narayan Rao was assassinated at the orders of Anandibai. He was lured into a meeting with Anandi bai’s supporters, where he was attacked and killed. The assassination shocked the Maratha Empire and led to further unrest and conflicts within the court.

Impact and Consequences: Narayan Rao’s assassination and the subsequent events had significant implications for the Maratha Empire:

1. Succession Crisis: Narayan Rao’s assassination deepened the succession crisis within the empire. It sparked a power struggle between Raghunathrao, Narayan Rao’s father, and Anandibai’s faction, which lasted for several years.
2. Rise of the Peshwa Regency: Following Narayan Rao’s death, a regency was established with Raghunathrao as the nominal Peshwa. However, the real power was wielded by ministers and factions, leading to a weakened central authority.
3. Influence of Anandibai: Anandibai’s role in the assassination and subsequent power dynamics increased her influence within the Maratha court. She played a significant role in shaping the politics of the empire for the next few years.
4. British Intervention: The instability caused by Narayan Rao’s assassination and the succession disputes eventually led to British intervention in Maratha affairs. The British East India Company capitalized on the chaos and conflicts, further influencing the course of Maratha’s history.

Legacy:

Narayan Rao’s reign was short-lived, but his assassination and the subsequent events had far-reaching consequences for the Maratha Empire:

• Weakened Maratha Authority: The events surrounding Narayan Rao’s assassination further weakened the central authority of the Peshwa and the Maratha Empire. The subsequent conflicts and power struggles led to a loss of unity and territorial control.
• The decline of the Peshwa Office: Narayan Rao’s assassination marked the beginning of a decline in the prominence and authority of the Peshwa.