Nana Phadnavis

History glossary

Also called: Nana Fadnavis · Topic: The Marathas · NCERT: Class 8, Ch 3 "The Marathas"

Meaning

Nana Phadnavis (1742–1800) was a powerful official at Pune who served the Peshwas. In the late 18th century he ran much of the Maratha state's business. At that time the Marathas were the main rivals of the British in India. The Class 8 chapter credits him with building the first anti-British alliance that covered all of India.

Example

During the First Anglo-Maratha War, Nana Phadnavis brought together two old enemies, Hyder Ali of Mysore and the Nizam of Hyderabad, against the British. A mural shows a British officer surrendering before Nana Phadnavis and Mahadji Shinde after this war.

Don't confuse with

  • Mahadji Shinde: a Maratha general whose power was based in the north. Nana worked at the Peshwa's court in Pune.

Related concepts

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