What is mastani?

Mastani was a controversial figure in 18th-century India, known primarily as the second wife of the Maratha Peshwa <a href="https://www.wikiwhat.page/kavramlar/Bajirao%20I">Bajirao I</a>. Her life is shrouded in legend and romanticized accounts.

• Background and Identity: Mastani was the daughter of Maharaja Chhatrasal of Bundelkhand and his Persian Muslim wife, Ruhaani Bai. This mixed heritage contributed to her being viewed as an outsider in the Maratha Hindu society of Pune.

• Relationship with Bajirao: Her relationship with <a href="https://www.wikiwhat.page/kavramlar/Bajirao%20I">Bajirao I</a> was a source of immense social and familial conflict. Bajirao was a prominent and powerful figure, and his affection for Mastani challenged societal norms.

• Religious Differences: Mastani practiced Islam, while Bajirao and the Peshwa family followed Hinduism. Her faith made her acceptance into Maratha society difficult.

• Struggle for Acceptance: She faced significant opposition from Bajirao's mother, Radhabai, and other family members, who struggled to accept her as Bajirao's wife.

• Son, Shamsher Bahadur: She had a son with Bajirao, named Krishna Rao, who was later renamed <a href="https://www.wikiwhat.page/kavramlar/Shamsher%20Bahadur%20I">Shamsher Bahadur I</a>. He was raised as a Muslim.

• Death: Mastani died shortly after Bajirao's death in 1740. Accounts of her death vary, with some suggesting she committed suicide. Her mazar (tomb) is located in Pabal, near Pune.

• Legacy: Mastani's story is often portrayed as a tale of love, courage, and defiance against social constraints. She has been the subject of books and films, most notably the 2015 Bollywood film Bajirao Mastani, which has further popularized her story and cemented her place in popular culture.