Governor Benyon (1735 — 1744 ) — Revolution in the Carnatic  – The Maratha Invasion of 1740-41

• Governor Benyon served in the Company for a long period and became Governor for nine years.
• His rule was marked by significant events, including the invasion of the Marathas led by Raghuji Bhonsle, which disrupted the political situation and weakened the authority of the Nawab of the Carnatic.
• Dost Ali, the Nawab of the Carnatic, died in battle with the Marathas, and his son, Safdar Ali, fled to Vellore and paid a large sum to the invaders, allowing them to attack Chanda Sahib, his rival.
• Chanda Sahib, a dangerous rival, was taken prisoner and sent to Satara where he remained for eight years.
• The English sent presents to Raghuji Bhonsle through Peter Uscan, securing cowles for both Madras and Fort St. David in April 1741.
• Safdar Ali sent his family to Madras for safety and made several visits in 1742. After his assassination in a scuffle, his son was proclaimed the new Nawab in December 1742.
• The new Nawab granted five villages (Vepery, Perambur, Pudupakam, Ernavore, and Sadayankuppam) to the English as a gift along with the right to mint Arcot rupees in Chintadripettah.