After the death of Shivaji, which group came to hold effective political power in the Maratha state?
Show answer & explanation
Correct answer: D
Explanation
The correct answer is option 4 i.e. Chitpavan Brahmanas.
After the death of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj and the subsequent execution of Sambhaji, the administrative control of the Maratha state gradually shifted. During the reign of Shahu Maharaj, the office of the Peshwa (Prime Minister) became hereditary and supreme. The Peshwas belonged to the Chitpavan Brahmana community. They moved the seat of power to Pune and transformed the Maratha state into a powerful confederacy, expanding its influence across the Indian subcontinent throughout the 18th century.