UPPCS Mains 2005

Maratha Political History

Authentic Past Paper Standard Evaluation

Arrange chronologically: 1. Chhatrapati Shahuji 2. Rajaram 3. Sambhaji 4. Shivaji-II

Solution & Analysis

Answer: B

Concept Following the death of the founder Shivaji I, the Maratha throne saw several transitions during the 'Twenty-Seven Year War' with the Mughals. Internal successions and captive status of heirs complicated the lineage.

Explanation 1. Sambhaji (1681-89): Eldest son of Shivaji, executed by Aurangzeb. 2. Rajaram (1689-1700): Younger son of Shivaji, led the resistance after Sambhaji's death. 3. Shivaji-II (1700-12): Son of Rajaram and Tarabai, ruled as a minor. 4. Shahu (1707-49): Son of Sambhaji, released from Mughal captivity and fought for his throne.

Logical Breakup
Logic 1: Shahu was in Mughal prison during the reigns of his uncle Rajaram and cousin Shivaji-II; he only ascended after his release following Aurangzeb's death.
Logic 2: This sequence (3-2-4-1) accurately reflects the shifts in leadership during the crisis years of the Maratha state.

Active Recall

Question

Who was Tarabai in the Maratha chronology?

Answer

She was the wife of Rajaram who ruled as regent for her son Shivaji-II and led the resistance against the Mughals.

Core Insight

The survival of the Maratha state despite three rapid successions under constant Mughal attack is a testament to the resilience of their administrative structure.