Baji Rao II’s ascent to Peshwa in 1796 was a watershed in Maratha history, marking a period of intense political upheaval and military engagement. Amidst the decline of the Mughal Empire, Baji Rao II inherited a realm fraught with internal discord and external threats, notably from the expanding British East India Company. His reign was characterized by efforts to navigate Maratha politics, mitigate internal rivalries, and counter British imperial ambitions. However, strategic missteps, particularly during the Second and Third Anglo-Maratha Wars, led to significant defeats and ultimately the Maratha Empire’s decline. The Treaty of Bassein in 1802, which effectively placed the Maratha Empire under British suzerainty, symbolized the loss of Maratha sovereignty. Despite the eventual capitulation, Baji Rao II’s legacy remains complex, reflecting both the missed opportunities for unity against the British and the enduring impact of his reign on Indian history and cultural memory. This era serves as a reflective chapter in the narrative of Indian resistance against colonial rule, emphasizing the importance of strategic foresight and unity.