Who among the following Peshwas was popularly known as Nana-Saheb ?

Balaji Baji Rao, the son of Baji Rao I, was popularly known as Nana Saheb [2]. He served as the Peshwa from 1740 to 1761, succeeding his father at the age of 18 [2]. During his tenure, the office of the Peshwa became the de facto ruler of the Maratha state, especially after the death of King Shahu in 1749 [2]. He was recognized as an expert in financial matters and a capable administrator, though he is often noted for paying less attention to the firm administrative foundation of newly conquered territories compared to his predecessors [2]. It is important to distinguish him from the later Nana Saheb (Dhondu Pant), who was the adopted son of Baji Rao II and a leader in the 1857 Revolt [4]. In the context of the great Peshwas of the 18th century, the title 'Nana Saheb' specifically refers to Balaji Baji Rao [1].

Sources

1. [1] History , class XI (Tamilnadu state board 2024 ed.) > Chapter 15: The Marathas > Balaji Baji Rao (1740-1761) > p. 231
2. [2] Modern India ,Bipin Chandra, History class XII (NCERT 1982 ed.)[Old NCERT] > Chapter 2: Indian States and Society in the 18th Century > MODERN INDIA > p. 31
3. [3] Modern India ,Bipin Chandra, History class XII (NCERT 1982 ed.)[Old NCERT] > Chapter 8: The Revolt of 1857 > MODERN INDIA > p. 144
4. [4] History , class XI (Tamilnadu state board 2024 ed.) > Chapter 15: The Marathas > Peshwa Madhay Rao I (1761-1772) and his Successors > p. 233