Ram Shastri

RAM SHASTRI

Crusader for justice and truth


In the history of India, Ram Shastri stands unique as the ideal public servant. He was the chief justice under the Peshwas. His integrity in public affairs is a model for all times. Ram Shastri held office under the Peshwas during the latter half of the 18th century. Corruption, nepotism and unscrupulous fights were the order of the day. Ram Shastri alone stood incorruptible and principled. He would decline even a royal gift made to his wife. He would not recommend his brother's case when he found his brother ill-qualified.


The fame of such a man cannot but endure the passage of time. Little is known of the childhood or the early life of Ram Shastri. References to him are available only after he entered the service of the Peshwas in Poona. Along with historical sources, we have also referred to the screenplay of the classic Prabhat film 'Ram Shastri' published by K.B. Dhawle.