Which of the following factors contributed to the rise of the Marathas in the 17th century? 1. The natural geography of the Konkan region aided military defense. 2. The Bhakti movement fostered social unity and cultural identity. Select the correct answer using the code below: |ForumIAS

[A] 1 only

[B] 2 only

[C] Both 1 and 2

[D] Neither 1 nor 2

Answer: C

Notes:

Explanation:

The Konkan region’s mountainous terrain, inaccessible valleys, and hill-forts provided a natural advantage for defense and guerrilla warfare.
The Bhakti movement, led by saints like Tukaram, Ramdas, and Eknath, promoted unity and a shared identity among the Marathas through vernacular hymns and inclusive spiritual teachings.

Source: NCERT and History Of Medieval India – NCERT (Satish Chandra)

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