Ramachandra Baba Sukthankar

Ramachandra Malhar Shenvi Sukhathankar , popularly known as Sukhathankar Ramachandra Baba Shenvi, was a diwan of Ranoji Scindia in the Maratha Empire.

Early life

Ramachandra Baba Sukthankar was born into the Shenvi subsect of the Goan Gaud Saraswat Brahmin family in Marcel, Goa.

Occupation

Ramachandra Baba shenvi served as the teacher of Peshwa Sadashiv Rao Bhau. During their time together in Satara, Sadashiv Rao received instruction from Ramchandra Baba Shenvi in various aspects of administration. Shenvi referred to Peshwa Sadashivrao Bhau as a bright student. Notably, he played a crucial role in the Battle of Bagru, compelling Ishwar Singh to cede territory to his brother Madhav Singh. Ramachandra Baba was a key figure in shaping the administration of the state of Scindias, managing it efficiently.

Reconstruction of Mahakaal Jyotirling Temple

The temple complex was destroyed by Iltutmish during his raid of Ujjain in 1234–35, a mosque was built in that place named vriddha or old mahakal. The Jyotirlinga was dismantled and believed to be thrown into a nearby 'Kotiteerth Kunda' with the Jaladhari stolen during the invasion. It was later reconstructed and revived by Maratha Diwan, Ramchandara baba shenvi by razing the mosque constructed on that place.