Balaji Vishwanath (Bhat) (1662–1720), better known as Peshwa Balaji Vishwanath, was the first of a series of hereditary Peshwas (Marathi for Prime Minister) hailing from the Marathi Chitpavan Brahmin family who gained effective control of the Maratha Empire during the 18th century. Balaji Vishwanath assisted a young Maratha Emperor Shahu to consolidate his grip on a kingdom that had been racked by civil war and persistent attack by the Mughals under Aurangzeb.

Statue of Balaji Vishwanath Peshwa at Shrivardhan in Raigad. This area is considered to be the seat of the Peshwas (legendary warriors of Maratha empire) and the statue h

s been established as a mark of respect. Though the place is in ruins and decrepit, it's worth a visit...also its close to the virgin Kondivli beach. Shrivardhan is covered as part of the trinity - Dive Agar, Harihareshwar, Shrivardhan - located about 200 odd kms south of Mumbai.