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राऊ
(Original Book on Bajirao-Mastani) (Marathi)
First published January 1, 1972
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Displaying 1 - 29 of 100 reviews
May 22, 2021
Excellent book literally taking you to the Bajirao era. The depiction of history is emaculate. It is really an amazing book which explores the historical love story of Bajirao Peshwa and Mastani. As I lived in Pune for 2 years i found those places relateable. I was literally living in their world . Most people in Maharashtra and even more outside the state are unaware of this beautiful story.
It also tells you a lot about the great Bajirao. Not many are aware of his exploits.
It is quite a good pick if you are having a first time sneak-peek into the Marathi history. A far more better choice than the film. Book reveals a lot more details other than just the love-story; history is accurately portrayed to a great extent with humane characters with all their vices and virtues.
The Peshwa defies his orthodox Brahmin heritage, declaring his love openly for the half-Muslim dancer, in the face of fierce opposition. A man way ahead of his time, Bajirao causes outrage when he marries Mastani, bringing her into home as his second wife. When he sees Mastani for the first time, her beauty and delicacy takes him off his foot and slowly and unknowingly he falls in love with Mastani. They break the boundary between religion and status and found a love which makes all the kingdom shake with protests. This book is more than just a love story, it also show how Bajirao became the Peshwa and win those battles.
And Yes this book is way better than Movie. Glad i read this book. A compelling book. Do read it.
It also tells you a lot about the great Bajirao. Not many are aware of his exploits.
It is quite a good pick if you are having a first time sneak-peek into the Marathi history. A far more better choice than the film. Book reveals a lot more details other than just the love-story; history is accurately portrayed to a great extent with humane characters with all their vices and virtues.
The Peshwa defies his orthodox Brahmin heritage, declaring his love openly for the half-Muslim dancer, in the face of fierce opposition. A man way ahead of his time, Bajirao causes outrage when he marries Mastani, bringing her into home as his second wife. When he sees Mastani for the first time, her beauty and delicacy takes him off his foot and slowly and unknowingly he falls in love with Mastani. They break the boundary between religion and status and found a love which makes all the kingdom shake with protests. This book is more than just a love story, it also show how Bajirao became the Peshwa and win those battles.
And Yes this book is way better than Movie. Glad i read this book. A compelling book. Do read it.
November 8, 2011
Before I picked up this book to read, I did not know that this is an important literary work in Marathi historic fiction. [This is based on real people and real events in history of course but it is a dramatized/ imagined retelling and hence I am tagging it as fiction.] I knew precious little about the main character of this book, Bajirao Peshawe, who was the prime minister of the Maratha empire in the 17th century.
This book struck a chord on several counts. First and foremost, the amazing amount of detail in the book. The book "shows" rather than "tells" and it succeeds in painting a vivid picture of the places and palaces that the events of this book primarily occur in. Second, the story itself is so powerful, the characters so well-developed, and the conflicts and dilemmas built up so masterfully that they set a dramatic stage for events in the lives of the main characters.
At the heart of it, this story is just a simple love story. It is complicated by the fact that Bajirao was a high-ranking officer, and his paramour, Mastani, an ordinary courtesan/ artist. Another small complication, Bajirao was already married. Small, because the book tells us that it was not uncommon for princes and officers to have multiple love interests at the time. Indeed Bajirao's father had sired a child from such an affair. However, the conflict perhaps escalated the way it did because Bajirao was very successful, was of a high-caste (a Brahman) and lived in very conservative times. That, and the fact that he wanted to give Mastani and her children the same stature as that of his married wife and children.
The books does great justice to characters who oppose the unfolding of the love story as well. You understand their pain and point of view within the confines of their environment and times. Bajirao is painted as a flawed figure for his time despite his stellar achievements, but when he says that people enjoyed all the good that came from his actions but none gave him the latitude to lead his life as per his wishes, you totally understand the great tragedy that befell this great Maratha warrior.
This book struck a chord on several counts. First and foremost, the amazing amount of detail in the book. The book "shows" rather than "tells" and it succeeds in painting a vivid picture of the places and palaces that the events of this book primarily occur in. Second, the story itself is so powerful, the characters so well-developed, and the conflicts and dilemmas built up so masterfully that they set a dramatic stage for events in the lives of the main characters.
At the heart of it, this story is just a simple love story. It is complicated by the fact that Bajirao was a high-ranking officer, and his paramour, Mastani, an ordinary courtesan/ artist. Another small complication, Bajirao was already married. Small, because the book tells us that it was not uncommon for princes and officers to have multiple love interests at the time. Indeed Bajirao's father had sired a child from such an affair. However, the conflict perhaps escalated the way it did because Bajirao was very successful, was of a high-caste (a Brahman) and lived in very conservative times. That, and the fact that he wanted to give Mastani and her children the same stature as that of his married wife and children.
The books does great justice to characters who oppose the unfolding of the love story as well. You understand their pain and point of view within the confines of their environment and times. Bajirao is painted as a flawed figure for his time despite his stellar achievements, but when he says that people enjoyed all the good that came from his actions but none gave him the latitude to lead his life as per his wishes, you totally understand the great tragedy that befell this great Maratha warrior.
October 16, 2016
'My eyes, they rain all the time
My eyes, they rain all the time
Till I see him in mine'
When Shrimant Bajirao Peshwa, feared by even the mighty Mughals, hears the exquisite Mastani sing, the passion that sparks between them grows quickly into a raging fire.
The Peshwa defies his orthodox Brahmin heritage, declaring his love openly for the half-Muslim dancer, in the face of fierce opposition. A man way ahead of his time, Bajirao causes outrage when he marries Mastani, bringing her into home as his second wife.
Me, having not seen the movie Bajirao Mastani till date was very much excited on hearing about the Marathi book being translated in English by Vikrant Pande under the publishing house @panmacmillanindia. Am very grateful to them for sending me an ARC.
About the book, I am always attracted to Indian history and it's historic fictions because of the mystery they possess. The storyline creates such a mysterious, romantic and toxic atmosphere that one cannot help but read through the pages without much stops. The Bajirao as portraited by the author is so gallant, proud that success seems to touch his feet. He is known to be very romantic and one who does not hesitate to take action when it comes in his mind.
When he sees Mastani for the first time, her beauty and delicacy takes him off his foot and slowly and unknowingly he falls in love with Mastani... They break the boundary between religion and status and found a love which makes all the kingdom shake with protests.
A tale of love so strong which can never be forgotten and will always remain immortal in the minds of all INDIAN... a tale which point out that there should be no barrier between religion or cast, that love sees none of this at all.
October 19, 2022
Storytel audiobook : Shreerang Deshmukh
Reader's voice was really good and I enjoyed it. But at times he used to be very loud especially if you are listening with airpods. But nonetheless it was amazing book to listen to.
Now about book :
Rau feels more like a love story of Bajirao and Mastani rather than a memoir of Bajirao. I would not have really minded that but my mindset while I entered the world of Peshwe was to know more about him. Bajirao Peshwe's legacy is astounding, it is not limited to just an affair with Mastani. Hell, it wasn't even an affair.
Bajirao's first wife was Kashibai. Bajirao took a second wife, Mastani, the daughter of Rajput king Chhatrasal of Bundelkhand and Ruhani Bai Begum. The marriage was political one, arranged to please Chhatrasal. Mastani had a son, Krishna Rao, in 1734. Since his mother was Muslim, the Hindu priests refused to conduct upanayana ceremony and he became known as Shamsher Bahadur. After the deaths of Baji Rao and Mastani in 1740, Kashibai raised six-year-old Shamsher Bahadur as her own.
There were times in the book when it felt like Bajirao did not think about anything else but her. I always like a good historical book. This book gave me literary pleasure but content wise, I would have preferred to read more about the fights he fought and impact it left on Maratha Empire.
Baji Rao was known for rapid tactical movements in battle, using cavalry inherited from Maratha generals. Two examples are the Battle of Palkhed in 1728, when he outmaneuvered the Mughal governor of the Deccan, and in the battle against Mughal emperor Muhammad Shah at Delhi in 1737. His skill was in moving large numbers of cavalry at a great speed. Even British marshal Montgomery studied Rau's tactics and specifically mentioned him in his book-
A Concise History Of Warfare
I do not mind twisting a few things , making up some fictional characters even to make the story interesting but it feels so wrong what this book has portrayed. Writing Mastani as a person she was not just did not feel right. But more than that reducing Peshwa Bajirao's character to mere a lover was even more disturbing and unpleasant.
Reader's voice was really good and I enjoyed it. But at times he used to be very loud especially if you are listening with airpods. But nonetheless it was amazing book to listen to.
Now about book :
Rau feels more like a love story of Bajirao and Mastani rather than a memoir of Bajirao. I would not have really minded that but my mindset while I entered the world of Peshwe was to know more about him. Bajirao Peshwe's legacy is astounding, it is not limited to just an affair with Mastani. Hell, it wasn't even an affair.
Bajirao's first wife was Kashibai. Bajirao took a second wife, Mastani, the daughter of Rajput king Chhatrasal of Bundelkhand and Ruhani Bai Begum. The marriage was political one, arranged to please Chhatrasal. Mastani had a son, Krishna Rao, in 1734. Since his mother was Muslim, the Hindu priests refused to conduct upanayana ceremony and he became known as Shamsher Bahadur. After the deaths of Baji Rao and Mastani in 1740, Kashibai raised six-year-old Shamsher Bahadur as her own.
There were times in the book when it felt like Bajirao did not think about anything else but her. I always like a good historical book. This book gave me literary pleasure but content wise, I would have preferred to read more about the fights he fought and impact it left on Maratha Empire.
Baji Rao was known for rapid tactical movements in battle, using cavalry inherited from Maratha generals. Two examples are the Battle of Palkhed in 1728, when he outmaneuvered the Mughal governor of the Deccan, and in the battle against Mughal emperor Muhammad Shah at Delhi in 1737. His skill was in moving large numbers of cavalry at a great speed. Even British marshal Montgomery studied Rau's tactics and specifically mentioned him in his book-
A Concise History Of Warfare
I do not mind twisting a few things , making up some fictional characters even to make the story interesting but it feels so wrong what this book has portrayed. Writing Mastani as a person she was not just did not feel right. But more than that reducing Peshwa Bajirao's character to mere a lover was even more disturbing and unpleasant.
December 19, 2022
Its a good dramatized book on Baji Rao Peshwa but I will recommend Era of Baji Rao by Uday Kulkarni to get accurate history.
November 20, 2016
On an average, by the time I’m halfway through a book, I’m already pretty clear about what rating it’s going to get from me. With NS Inamdar’s Rau: The Great Love Story of Bajirao Mastani (translated from Marathi by Vikrant Pande), by the midway mark, I was thinking: This is just about okay. No more than two stars. Because this novel, based on the life of the early 18th century Maratha warrior/Prime Minister, Bajirao Peshwa, and his love for the Muslim dancing girl Mastani, wasn’t really being utterly engrossing. It was plodding on, switching between the Peshwa’s many campaigns, to his relations with his family—his wife Kashibai, his brother and assistant Chimaji Appa, his young son Nanasaheb, his matriarch mother Radhabai—to his subordinates and sardars, to Mastani, now and then.
Then, in the last forty of fifty pages, the book began to fall into place, and ended in a poignant and memorable way. Which is what makes me give it a three-star rating.
What made me not like Rau?
Firstly, the fact that I never really get an idea of the love between Bajirao and Mastani. Their story comes across as one of great lust, not of great love. Of raging hormones, not of two people who genuinely understand and love each other.
Secondly (and this stems from the first point), I hated the unfeeling, un-understanding attitude of Bajirao and Mastani towards his family. Come on, you’re having an affair with another woman, you’ve even had a child with her, and you don’t think your wife and son and mother have any reason to disapprove? That is selfishness and sheer insensitivity. Also, to some extent, stupidity: Rau’s absolute refusal to entertain any anti-Mastani views, and Mastani’s bovine attempts to suck up to his family, struck me as rather dumb.
Thirdly, the bigoted, anti-Muslim feel to the book. Yes, the Marathas and the Mughals (not to mention the Nizam) were at daggers drawn, but the way the Maratha campaigns are depicted—as attempts to rid the land of the brutal Muslims—smacks of bigotry. On a related note, it’s odd that Mastani, despite being referred to again and again as the ‘Musaalmaan’, is shown praying to a tulsi plant and to Krishna, performing an aarti, and doing other things no monotheistic and religious woman would do of her own accord.
Fourthly, the translation. Vikrant Pande’s language is at times stilted, sometimes outright incorrect (“seeing that Bajirao had slept off”, “Getting too big for your shoes”, etc).
But, as I said, the end is a memorable one, and that is why the three stars. For the end and the forty or so pages that precede it. For the rest, it’s still two stars.
Then, in the last forty of fifty pages, the book began to fall into place, and ended in a poignant and memorable way. Which is what makes me give it a three-star rating.
What made me not like Rau?
Firstly, the fact that I never really get an idea of the love between Bajirao and Mastani. Their story comes across as one of great lust, not of great love. Of raging hormones, not of two people who genuinely understand and love each other.
Secondly (and this stems from the first point), I hated the unfeeling, un-understanding attitude of Bajirao and Mastani towards his family. Come on, you’re having an affair with another woman, you’ve even had a child with her, and you don’t think your wife and son and mother have any reason to disapprove? That is selfishness and sheer insensitivity. Also, to some extent, stupidity: Rau’s absolute refusal to entertain any anti-Mastani views, and Mastani’s bovine attempts to suck up to his family, struck me as rather dumb.
Thirdly, the bigoted, anti-Muslim feel to the book. Yes, the Marathas and the Mughals (not to mention the Nizam) were at daggers drawn, but the way the Maratha campaigns are depicted—as attempts to rid the land of the brutal Muslims—smacks of bigotry. On a related note, it’s odd that Mastani, despite being referred to again and again as the ‘Musaalmaan’, is shown praying to a tulsi plant and to Krishna, performing an aarti, and doing other things no monotheistic and religious woman would do of her own accord.
Fourthly, the translation. Vikrant Pande’s language is at times stilted, sometimes outright incorrect (“seeing that Bajirao had slept off”, “Getting too big for your shoes”, etc).
But, as I said, the end is a memorable one, and that is why the three stars. For the end and the forty or so pages that precede it. For the rest, it’s still two stars.
March 6, 2022
Enjoyed reading the book.
The life story of Bajirao Peshwa is a chance to get an insight about the inner feelings of a King, which he is not allowed to express. The King who looks after the entire kingdom, wins so many wars for the betterment of the Maratha empire was being thrown away by his own people including his Mother and wife because he fell in love with a non-brahmin, moreover a non-hindu lady who was just a dancer.The book tells us how Bajirao Peshwa, the person who shock the Delhi sultanate, the perosn who never saw defeat in war, was captured by the beauty of this Lady called Mastani and he lost to his family people and his subordinates. Eventually it happened so that he died because of illness and that too far away from Shaniwarwada (King's Palace) because he did not want to enter the Palace where no one respects him anymore.
This is an example of how in Medieval India the cultural ethics were so strong that even King could not escape from it. On one hand people were so happy with Bajirao Peshwa for being the only Maratha ruler to extend the Maratha empire to almost entire India including Delhi and on the other hand same poeple were hating him for being in relation with a dancer. Ultimately the King who gives shelter to all the poor and needy people died without a shelter.
I would recommend this book for Maratha history lovers.
The life story of Bajirao Peshwa is a chance to get an insight about the inner feelings of a King, which he is not allowed to express. The King who looks after the entire kingdom, wins so many wars for the betterment of the Maratha empire was being thrown away by his own people including his Mother and wife because he fell in love with a non-brahmin, moreover a non-hindu lady who was just a dancer.The book tells us how Bajirao Peshwa, the person who shock the Delhi sultanate, the perosn who never saw defeat in war, was captured by the beauty of this Lady called Mastani and he lost to his family people and his subordinates. Eventually it happened so that he died because of illness and that too far away from Shaniwarwada (King's Palace) because he did not want to enter the Palace where no one respects him anymore.
This is an example of how in Medieval India the cultural ethics were so strong that even King could not escape from it. On one hand people were so happy with Bajirao Peshwa for being the only Maratha ruler to extend the Maratha empire to almost entire India including Delhi and on the other hand same poeple were hating him for being in relation with a dancer. Ultimately the King who gives shelter to all the poor and needy people died without a shelter.
I would recommend this book for Maratha history lovers.
November 10, 2014
Completely disappointed after reading this book. the book didn't tell anything about childhood of Bajirao Peshwa. There is no information related to the battles held between Bajirao and other enemies. Books focus is only on love between Bajirao and Mastani. However the detail dramatic explanation and information that found in another books like mruthyunjay, chhava etc. are absent in this book. After reading this book one can only understood that , at the time of Bajirao Peshwa, MARATHA EMPIRE was at its heighest point. and the Bajirao Peshawa was the strongest warrior in whole Hindustan. However the book completely fails to describe the complete life of Bajirao Peshwa. Hence one who already know little-bit about Bajirao Peshwa, will definitely be disappointed after reading this book. The most Disgusting thing about this book is that, the book didn,t tell anything about Mastani after the death of Bajirao Peshwa. Hence we didn't get the information about Mastani life-end.
October 25, 2018
I have to say here, that the movie was much better. But well, to be very honest, the book is fairly translated and it's marvelous how poetry has been sewed into the story. But, there are TOO MANY UNNECESSARY SCENES! And it just becomes too long. And too long. And too long.
It does take you to that Maratha era, but yet, fails to deliver what it aims at. And that was my biggest disappointment.
I loved all the characters except Rau and Mastani. Mastani has been very poorly developed in the book and the only savior is Kashibai, whom from the start to the end, I adored
It does take you to that Maratha era, but yet, fails to deliver what it aims at. And that was my biggest disappointment.
I loved all the characters except Rau and Mastani. Mastani has been very poorly developed in the book and the only savior is Kashibai, whom from the start to the end, I adored
September 12, 2017
This book is undoubtedly one of the best book I have ever read. But like every book this book too have a flaw. The only flaw. And that is, it ends. This book is so amazing that you wish it to never end. Absolutely loved it.
February 16, 2017
This novel provides us different accounts of war, politics and the life inside the famous Shaniwar Wada. The major portion of the novel is devoted to the beautiful love story of Bajirao and Mastani. Bajirau who became the Peshwa after his father, Balaji Vishwanath , proved his mettle fighting numerous wars and being victorious in all of it. The most important campaign of the book is devoted to Peshwa’s march towards Delhi to confront Mughals to fulfill the promise once made by Chatrapati.
This book brings out the other side of the Peshwa who dares to challenge the tradition and brings Mastani as her second wife to his haveli, the Powerful house of the Maratha empire. When the mere name of Peshwa could give sleepless nights for enemies but his love towards Mastani provoked the ire of entire family. His devoted wife, Kashibai who followed him in every step of life shut her door on his face. His younger brother, Chimaji Appa who followed Peshwa like a shadow made all attempts to separate them. Radhabai, the Peshwa’s mother, for whom family principles are of utmost important, turned against Bajirau. The love towards the Peshwa gives Mastani , the power to digest the social wrath and insults.
My respect towards Bajirau has increased immensely after reading this book.
Coming to the film made by Bansali, Bajirau Mastani,
Kashibai and Mastani never met each other and forget about dancing. The royal family was prohibited to dance in front of the court/people. The Pinga shows them dancing together. How come a person who was very angry on Mastani for taking the love shared by his Swami could merrily dance? Bansali knows very well about
the formulae of bollywood.
To know that face of the Peshwa which gave sleepless nights to enemies, you should read Uday Kulkarni’s The Era of Baji Rao
http://www.amazon.in/Era-Baji-rao-Uda...
This book brings out the other side of the Peshwa who dares to challenge the tradition and brings Mastani as her second wife to his haveli, the Powerful house of the Maratha empire. When the mere name of Peshwa could give sleepless nights for enemies but his love towards Mastani provoked the ire of entire family. His devoted wife, Kashibai who followed him in every step of life shut her door on his face. His younger brother, Chimaji Appa who followed Peshwa like a shadow made all attempts to separate them. Radhabai, the Peshwa’s mother, for whom family principles are of utmost important, turned against Bajirau. The love towards the Peshwa gives Mastani , the power to digest the social wrath and insults.
My respect towards Bajirau has increased immensely after reading this book.
Coming to the film made by Bansali, Bajirau Mastani,
Kashibai and Mastani never met each other and forget about dancing. The royal family was prohibited to dance in front of the court/people. The Pinga shows them dancing together. How come a person who was very angry on Mastani for taking the love shared by his Swami could merrily dance? Bansali knows very well about
the formulae of bollywood.
To know that face of the Peshwa which gave sleepless nights to enemies, you should read Uday Kulkarni’s The Era of Baji Rao
http://www.amazon.in/Era-Baji-rao-Uda...
Read
May 28, 2015sadashiv patil
i am happy bcase very interesting chemistry betwen bajirao n mastani in this marathi novel painted by inamdar.raje shivaji n sambhaji after were no any wish person survive to marathi rayat.but bajirao ran in those battle n support them.once time cruel delhi was using notoriouse works with our citizens.bt bajirao was cuted his nose aheade of her.bt there did'nt do any action against marathas.
"concept of beautifull in mastani
n
in bravery without bajirao
nothing good like.
jai hind
i am happy bcase very interesting chemistry betwen bajirao n mastani in this marathi novel painted by inamdar.raje shivaji n sambhaji after were no any wish person survive to marathi rayat.but bajirao ran in those battle n support them.once time cruel delhi was using notoriouse works with our citizens.bt bajirao was cuted his nose aheade of her.bt there did'nt do any action against marathas.
"concept of beautifull in mastani
n
in bravery without bajirao
nothing good like.
jai hind
November 3, 2016
This book is a well woven story about Bajiraoa and Mastani and everyone else related to them. The movie might be based on this book, but their are a lot of differences between them. This is the translated version of the original Marathi book by the same author. Whatever may the case be, this is definitely a book everyone will enjoy. Personally I loved it. It is a beautiful story and the description of the characters and the on goings is stunning. I recommend it to all, those who have seen the movie or not, it does not matter. This is a book you must read.
July 24, 2017
I had read Swami previously. but Rau was a different experience. the minute details of all the feelings of each and every character was very precisely drafted that you are unable to close the book till the end...
December 25, 2013
Excellent book literally taking you to the Bajirao era. The depiction of history is emaculate.Liked this book and have developed great respect for Bajirao peshwa sharing same city is a pride
January 31, 2014
the first historic novel i read.
the book was there in house since my childhood. And hence my favourite.
the book was there in house since my childhood. And hence my favourite.
January 5, 2016
toooo good
October 28, 2016
An Epic story. Nice to read.
September 6, 2016
"It rains all the while through my eyes
My eyes, they rain all the time...
My eyes, they rain all the time...
Till I see him in mine."
My eyes, they rain all the time...
My eyes, they rain all the time...
Till I see him in mine."
June 29, 2017
The best book on Peshwai.. With details and emotions..
January 24, 2019
Excellent book
November 8, 2019
Another great book on Baji Rao Mastani!
Along with this everyone should read The Era of Baji Rao by Uday S. Kulkarni.
Along with this everyone should read The Era of Baji Rao by Uday S. Kulkarni.
March 12, 2025
This version is a testament to how a piece of literature in the regional language can never be on par with the original. I tried to read about a page or two in Marathi and I could feel the literary prowess of NS Inamdar ooze through the pages, however the translation showed no feeling.
The book itself read more like a history textbook. I wish there was more building of characters and a storyline. Wonder if it reads better on the original. Conclusively, this is an overload of information that the reader is having to put together and assume the rest the of the picture.
The book itself read more like a history textbook. I wish there was more building of characters and a storyline. Wonder if it reads better on the original. Conclusively, this is an overload of information that the reader is having to put together and assume the rest the of the picture.
August 22, 2017
Loved it, nicely written.
September 7, 2016
STORY OF BAJIRAO MASTANI
AUTHOR: N.S. INAMDAR
GENRE: HISTORICAL/ROMANCE
STARS: ***
'My eyes, they rain all the time My eyes, they rain all the time Till I see him in mine'
This story is about the fearless Maratha Peshwa Shrimant Bajirao also known as Rau. This book depicts his life and his love for the half-muslim dancer Mastani. Rau was the Peshwa of the Pune-Satara region. He was to brim of success and was feared by his enemies, the mighty Mughals. He was dedicated to his work and had a different approach towards society. Even being a Brahmin in those early days of 18th century his mind was free from those orthodox Brahmin concepts. His wife Kashibai was a women of kind heart. She loved Shrimant devotedly. Their first son Nana like his father took responsibility of the official duties at a very early age. Mean while Rau met this most beautiful singer-dancer Mastani. Even if she was a simple baiji, Rau had kept her and her troops and enjoyed her dance often. Gradually he fell more for her and their passion for love grew stronger day by day. Rau didn't think for a single day what others would think of his activity.He personally married Mastani and she gave birth to his son Samsher. Soon all these became a great topic of gossip. The Brahmins got agitated. All the royal families felt that their pride were being hampered by Rau's activities. But on the other hand Rau was arrogant, he was not to be convinced to any conclusion for leaving Mastani even when requested by his own brother Appa.
I truly believe that Rau was a man of strong will and great personality.He was so high with his own pride that he considered his word to be the last. He did not believe in any religious cliched systems of the Hindus. So he could easily accept the baiji as his wife- he never thought twice, which was unusual for a man of that time. According to me the love story was well plotted but the story is a tragedy. Everything was correctly depicted but... there is a big BUT... If the Bajirao was considered to be a man much ahead of his time then why did he even believe in polygamy. When he already had a lovely wife like Kashibai he should have been happy with his life instead he fell for another woman like any other royal men of that age. To me religion is not the factor but polygamy, it absolutely not so cool or anything chivalrous. What kind of a man you are if you hurt your wife and go gaga with some other pretty woman only for her beauty?( well,pretty much wortheless to me) So I didn't like Rau's character at all. I found it rather stupid. This would have been okay with me if Rau didn't have a wife on the first place and married the dancer. That is all I have to say about this book. If anyone loves history or romance or believe in "Love is blind" things they are surely going to love it. There is no such interesting plot twist in this story, it goes plainly from the beginning till the end.
AUTHOR: N.S. INAMDAR
GENRE: HISTORICAL/ROMANCE
STARS: ***
'My eyes, they rain all the time My eyes, they rain all the time Till I see him in mine'
This story is about the fearless Maratha Peshwa Shrimant Bajirao also known as Rau. This book depicts his life and his love for the half-muslim dancer Mastani. Rau was the Peshwa of the Pune-Satara region. He was to brim of success and was feared by his enemies, the mighty Mughals. He was dedicated to his work and had a different approach towards society. Even being a Brahmin in those early days of 18th century his mind was free from those orthodox Brahmin concepts. His wife Kashibai was a women of kind heart. She loved Shrimant devotedly. Their first son Nana like his father took responsibility of the official duties at a very early age. Mean while Rau met this most beautiful singer-dancer Mastani. Even if she was a simple baiji, Rau had kept her and her troops and enjoyed her dance often. Gradually he fell more for her and their passion for love grew stronger day by day. Rau didn't think for a single day what others would think of his activity.He personally married Mastani and she gave birth to his son Samsher. Soon all these became a great topic of gossip. The Brahmins got agitated. All the royal families felt that their pride were being hampered by Rau's activities. But on the other hand Rau was arrogant, he was not to be convinced to any conclusion for leaving Mastani even when requested by his own brother Appa.
I truly believe that Rau was a man of strong will and great personality.He was so high with his own pride that he considered his word to be the last. He did not believe in any religious cliched systems of the Hindus. So he could easily accept the baiji as his wife- he never thought twice, which was unusual for a man of that time. According to me the love story was well plotted but the story is a tragedy. Everything was correctly depicted but... there is a big BUT... If the Bajirao was considered to be a man much ahead of his time then why did he even believe in polygamy. When he already had a lovely wife like Kashibai he should have been happy with his life instead he fell for another woman like any other royal men of that age. To me religion is not the factor but polygamy, it absolutely not so cool or anything chivalrous. What kind of a man you are if you hurt your wife and go gaga with some other pretty woman only for her beauty?( well,pretty much wortheless to me) So I didn't like Rau's character at all. I found it rather stupid. This would have been okay with me if Rau didn't have a wife on the first place and married the dancer. That is all I have to say about this book. If anyone loves history or romance or believe in "Love is blind" things they are surely going to love it. There is no such interesting plot twist in this story, it goes plainly from the beginning till the end.
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March 20, 2019Very nice book by Na. Sa. Inamdar about Bajirao Peshwa I.
September 13, 2016
Thank you Pan Macmillan India for sending me a copy of this book for review :)
N.S Inamdar’s Rau wonderfully captures the life and times of the great Peshwa Bajirao. It allows us deeper insight into the events that propelled the prosperity of the Maratha Empire. Bajirao’s role is monumental as he relentlessly pursues Hindavi Swaraj, trying to rid India of the tyranny of all external forces. The novel introduces Mastani, an entertainer whose performances in the court begin to draw the Peshwa’s attention. Soon, a relationship blossoms between the two, much to the astonishment of others. As Bajirao finds himself falling in love with Mastani, he is forced to face a society that is highly intolerant of intercaste relationships. What is more, his loved ones too refuse to accept Mastani, thereby isolating Bajirao in his struggle. Rau mirrors the heartbreak and burden that follows suit with being titled the Peshwa.
This book that inspired the film is a lot more wholesome in its attempt to convey the highs and lows of Bajirao’s reign. Firstly, a larger chunk of the text concerns Bajirao’s conquests in comparison to the romance quotient. This helps us understand Bajirao’s mien sans Mastani. He is a willful, valiant and affectionate individual. Although he is quick tempered, he fights for what he believes in. It is rather sad that, for a Peshwa who gave his all to the society, he finds himself alone towards the end of his journey. Secondly, Mastani is not the warrior princess as depicted in the movie. Rather, this novel highlights her demure and agreeable nature. She is selfless and always ready to forgive other’s transgressions. Thirdly, the novel presents to us the next generation and gives importance to the rest of the family. It was great to learn more about the family and how they were integral catalysts of events at that time.
Radhabai, Bajirao’s mother is an austere women, defined by the traditions and symbolic of the narrow minded society. I didn’t much like her. Kashibai is portrayed to be a responsible and loving wife who gets neglected because of Bajirao’s growing affection for Mastani. The novel is not split into chapters, rather it is divided into four parts. Albeit this division is uncommon, it does not hamper the reading pace. I found the first few pages to be a tad bit slow. But then Bajirao’s zeal captivates you and holds on till the end. His strength is infectious and urges one to be firm about their beliefs even if the entire world is against it. Originally written in Marathi, it is a moving tale about love, sacrifice and the irony of possessing power but losing out on the one thing that an individual cherishes the most. I thoroughly enjoyed reading it and would definitely recommend it to all who love historical accounts or simply want to glean more about Peshwa Bajirao and the Maratha Empire.
N.S Inamdar’s Rau wonderfully captures the life and times of the great Peshwa Bajirao. It allows us deeper insight into the events that propelled the prosperity of the Maratha Empire. Bajirao’s role is monumental as he relentlessly pursues Hindavi Swaraj, trying to rid India of the tyranny of all external forces. The novel introduces Mastani, an entertainer whose performances in the court begin to draw the Peshwa’s attention. Soon, a relationship blossoms between the two, much to the astonishment of others. As Bajirao finds himself falling in love with Mastani, he is forced to face a society that is highly intolerant of intercaste relationships. What is more, his loved ones too refuse to accept Mastani, thereby isolating Bajirao in his struggle. Rau mirrors the heartbreak and burden that follows suit with being titled the Peshwa.
This book that inspired the film is a lot more wholesome in its attempt to convey the highs and lows of Bajirao’s reign. Firstly, a larger chunk of the text concerns Bajirao’s conquests in comparison to the romance quotient. This helps us understand Bajirao’s mien sans Mastani. He is a willful, valiant and affectionate individual. Although he is quick tempered, he fights for what he believes in. It is rather sad that, for a Peshwa who gave his all to the society, he finds himself alone towards the end of his journey. Secondly, Mastani is not the warrior princess as depicted in the movie. Rather, this novel highlights her demure and agreeable nature. She is selfless and always ready to forgive other’s transgressions. Thirdly, the novel presents to us the next generation and gives importance to the rest of the family. It was great to learn more about the family and how they were integral catalysts of events at that time.
Radhabai, Bajirao’s mother is an austere women, defined by the traditions and symbolic of the narrow minded society. I didn’t much like her. Kashibai is portrayed to be a responsible and loving wife who gets neglected because of Bajirao’s growing affection for Mastani. The novel is not split into chapters, rather it is divided into four parts. Albeit this division is uncommon, it does not hamper the reading pace. I found the first few pages to be a tad bit slow. But then Bajirao’s zeal captivates you and holds on till the end. His strength is infectious and urges one to be firm about their beliefs even if the entire world is against it. Originally written in Marathi, it is a moving tale about love, sacrifice and the irony of possessing power but losing out on the one thing that an individual cherishes the most. I thoroughly enjoyed reading it and would definitely recommend it to all who love historical accounts or simply want to glean more about Peshwa Bajirao and the Maratha Empire.
March 4, 2024
Awsomeeeeeeeeee......... Just finished it, well Let me come to my normal state first......
Yes the author is done terrific job by giving life to this epic on pages. Bajirao peshwa (Rau) was narrated & described very well. Other characters Radhabai, kashibai, chimajiappa,nanasaheb & the most talked about 2nd lead character MAstaniiii has left you to thing on their sides after you finishing this great novel. The story unfolds one of the main chapters of Maratha history, here you revised that era of Peshva (bajirao's Era). Book is all about Historical Love story (well some of you will not agree on this) that had special mark of Bajirao's couragefull, undefeated & so powerful Carrer as peshwa.
By looking at novel one can easily said that author had done lot of research.
Conversation between the characters are beautifully written. Somewhere you fill story is pacing slow but after continuing for 2 -3 pages you will fill that speed again. Even by finishing this book i still cant decide whether to love or hate this main character. After reading this novel i understand meaning of this Punch line - Love has no boundaries....
simply a treat to read. *****
Yes the author is done terrific job by giving life to this epic on pages. Bajirao peshwa (Rau) was narrated & described very well. Other characters Radhabai, kashibai, chimajiappa,nanasaheb & the most talked about 2nd lead character MAstaniiii has left you to thing on their sides after you finishing this great novel. The story unfolds one of the main chapters of Maratha history, here you revised that era of Peshva (bajirao's Era). Book is all about Historical Love story (well some of you will not agree on this) that had special mark of Bajirao's couragefull, undefeated & so powerful Carrer as peshwa.
By looking at novel one can easily said that author had done lot of research.
Conversation between the characters are beautifully written. Somewhere you fill story is pacing slow but after continuing for 2 -3 pages you will fill that speed again. Even by finishing this book i still cant decide whether to love or hate this main character. After reading this novel i understand meaning of this Punch line - Love has no boundaries....
simply a treat to read. *****
August 22, 2025
Informative book on bajirao peshwe, his contribution to maintain maratha empire & love towards mastani, everything bundled in a effective writing
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