Q. With respect to the conflicts and outcomes during Sambhaji’s reign, consider the following:
1.Sambhaji successfully concluded a treaty with the Portuguese at Goa, securing their neutrality in the Maratha-Mughal wars.
2.Sambhaji’s capture and brutal execution by Aurangzeb led to the immediate collapse of the Maratha kingdom and a period of direct Mughal rule over the Deccan.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
Answer: D
Notes:
Explanation:
- Statement 1: Incorrect. Sambhaji was often in direct conflict with the Portuguese, attacking their territories (like Goa and Janjira) and attempting to counter their naval power. He did not achieve a long-term alliance or treaty of neutrality.
- Statement 2: Incorrect. While Sambhaji’s execution in 1689 CE was a massive blow, it acted as a catalyst for a Maratha War of Independence (1689–1707). Under the leadership of Rajaram and later Tarabai, the Marathas fiercely resisted, preventing the complete collapse of the kingdom.
