Maratha Political History

Chronology of Maratha Chhatrapatis after Shivaji

The correct chronological order of Maratha Chhatrapatis is: Sambhaji, followed by Rajaram, then Shivaji-II (under Tarabai), and finally Shahu Maharaj after his release from Mughal captivity.

Primary Reference: NCERT Class VII: Our Pasts - II

Archived:

Updated:

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

[UPPCS Mains 2005]

Detailed Solution & Historical Context

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.

Authentic Source Evidence


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.

Analytical Breakdown


  • 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.
  • Conceptual Deep Dive & Logic

    "Who was Tarabai in the Maratha chronology?"

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

    Examiner's Mindset & Pro-Tip

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

    Topic Clusters (click to see related topic questions)

    Aurangzeb 7

    Analysing authentic UPPCS Mainsprevious year questions is non-negotiable for serious aspirants. Thoroughly decoding past exam trends related to Maratha Political History helps you understand the examiner's mindset. Mastering specific entities like Maratha Chronology and Sambhaji builds the analytical intuition needed to clear the exam. Practice Previous Year Questions here →

    UPSC Question Bank | Verified
    Live Archive Status