What key concept did Shivaji Bhonsle promote to assert Maratha independence?

Shivaji promoted the concept of Swarajya, meaning self-rule.

Fill in the blank: The Bhakti movement, influential in the Maratha cultural revival, spanned from the ___ to the ___ centuries.

7th to 17th

True or False: The Maratha Empire was primarily established through diplomatic negotiations rather than military conquests.

False. The Maratha Empire was established through military conquests and strategic guerrilla tactics.

Which significant naval achievement is attributed to Shivaji's leadership?

Shivaji built a navy to protect the west coast, establishing Maratha maritime power.

What was the primary role of the Ashta Pradhana Mandala in Shivaji's administration?

The Ashta Pradhana Mandala served as a council of eight ministers to assist in governing the Maratha Empire.

Riddle: I was a fierce queen who led campaigns against the Mughals after my husband's death. Who am I?

Tarabai

Fill in the blank: Shivaji's military strategy relied heavily on ___ warfare, which included quick surprise attacks.

Guerrilla

What was the significance of the coronation ceremony of Shivaji in 1674?

Shivaji was crowned Chhatrapati, marking the formal establishment of the Maratha Kingdom.

Multiple Choice: Which of the following was NOT a focus of the Bhakti movement? A) Devotion to God B) Translation of holy texts C) Military expansion D) Social awareness

C) Military expansion

True or False: The Maratha Empire was characterized by strict centralized governance with no regional autonomy.

False. The Maratha Empire saw a shift towards regional autonomy and power among local chiefs.

Fill in the blank: The Marathas collected taxes known as ___ and ___ from provinces they protected.

Chauth and sardeshmukhi

Who was responsible for the cultural revival during Shivaji's reign, particularly promoting the Marathi language?

Shivaji commissioned works that replaced Persian with Sanskrit, boosting the Marathi language.

Riddle: I am known as a formidable ruler of the Holkar dynasty who rebuilt sacred sites and promoted public welfare. Who am I?

Ahilyabai Holkar

What critical factor contributed to the Maratha's ability to resist Mughal domination after Shivaji's death?

The Marathas employed fierce guerrilla tactics and strong leadership under Sambhaji and Rajaram.