New History of the Marathas v2.c34.2

v2.c34.2

1. Raghunathrao's demand for partition.—Since the Peshwa's success at Rakshasbhuvan Raghunathrao had been realizing that he was eclipsed by his nephew's increasing prestige and moral greatness. He could only make a theatrical exhibition of his inherent weakness, which the fulsome flattery of his immediate comrades like Chinto Vithal served only to enhance. Raghunathrao's wife Anandibai was probably too young at the time to advise him for better or worse. The Peshwa did his utmost to keep him contented and got out of him whatever good work he was capable of. The Peshwa's mother Gopikabai, sick of the constant turmoil, followed the same course and went to live in the neighbourhood of Nasik, seeking peace in pious contemplation. A report from Raghunathrao's quarters says, "Chinto Vithal is Dada's sole adviser. Some of Holkar's party have joined here and keep him in humour. A motley has assembled, each one with a selfish motive, with little regard for the interests of the State. The Shrimant is extremely fickle-minded. Every wise counsel from sane persons is misrepresented to him. He expressed his desire to solemnly make the vow of fire-worship (*agnihotra*). Preparations were quickly made; all the earthwork and brickwork for the altars were completed; and just at the moment when the ceremony was to start, Dada suddenly declared, 'I can't stand this wearisome job' and threw all the brick constructions into the Godavari. Priests had been brought from long distances in palanquins with bearers supplied for all; and now when they had all assembled, they have been dismissed. Chinto Vithal is bent upon ruining the Maratha State.” This little incident well illustrates the whimsical nature of Raghunathrao.