Who succeeded Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj as the ruler of the Maratha Empire?
Show answer & explanation
Correct answer: C
Explanation
The correct answer is Option 3: Chhatrapati Sambhaji.
Explanation:
- After the death of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj (April 3, 1680), his eldest son, Sambhaji Maharaj, became the second Chhatrapati of the Maratha Empire.
- Coronation: Sambhaji Maharaj's official coronation took place on January 16, 1681, at Raigad Fort.
- Military Leadership: During his reign, he waged a fierce struggle against the Mughal Emperor Aurangzeb. Under his leadership, the Maratha army won numerous battles against the Mughals, the Siddis, and the Portuguese.
- Legacy: He was not only a great warrior but also a scholar of Sanskrit and other languages. He authored texts such as 'Budhabhushanam'.
Sequence of Maratha Rulers (Quick Revision):
- Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj (1674–1680): Founder of the Maratha Empire.
- Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj (1681–1689): Shivaji Maharaj's eldest son.
- Chhatrapati Rajaram Maharaj (1689–1700): Shivaji Maharaj's younger son (became ruler after the death of Sambhaji Maharaj).
- Maharani Tarabai (1700–1708): Ruled in the name of her son, Shivaji II, following Rajaram's death.
- Chhatrapati Shahu Maharaj (1708–1749): Son of Sambhaji Maharaj (became ruler after being released from Mughal captivity and subsequently winning a civil war against Tarabai).
Important Questions for Upcoming Examinations:
Question: Who was the second Chhatrapati of the Maratha Empire?
Answer: Sambhaji Maharaj.
Question: Who authored the text 'Budhabhushanam' in Sanskrit?
Answer: Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj.
Question: Who led the Maratha resistance after the death of Rajaram Maharaj?
Answer: Maharani Tarabai.