In the Maratha History which was dominated by Holkar's, Scindhias, Bhosles and Gaikwads, name of Antaji Mankeshwar (to our North Indian brethren specially) is hardly even heard. Raghunath Rao had appointed him as the representative of Peshwa in Mughal Court and the Mughal Emperor was under his protection. He remained in the position from 1752 AD till 1761 AD when he died fighting in Third Battle of Panipat. Since Delhi is the seat of Royal Power, the representative of Peshwa held a very vital position. For all the practical purposes he was the Ambassador (eyes and ears) of Peshwas in the Mughal Court and was the via Media to Mughal Court. This gives us some idea as to how important role Antaji Mankeshwar played in those days of hectic parleys, quick combinations and fluid changes of situation per minute, not to forgot the requirement of maintaining army contingent which supported the Maratha efforts in War. What greater tribute can be had when we learn that he died in Panipat fighting Durraniforces. Carrying therefore, the same line of argument, that had Vishwasrao won the third Battle of Panipat, what position Antaji Mankeshwar would have adorned, I live it to imagination of readers. - Pankaj Gupta