Shahji, also known as Shahaji Bhonsle, was a prominent military leader and statesman during the 17th century in India. He played a crucial role as a king-maker in the establishment and consolidation of various regional kingdoms. Among the options given, Shahji played the role of a king-maker for Ahmadnagar.

Let's delve into the details to understand why Ahmadnagar is the correct answer:

Shahji Bhonsle:
- Shahji Bhonsle was born in 1594 in the Bhonsle family, which was a prominent Maratha clan in the Deccan region of India.
- He was the father of the legendary Maratha warrior king Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj and played a significant role in shaping his early years.

Ahmadnagar:
- Ahmadnagar was a prominent kingdom in the Deccan region during the 16th and 17th centuries.
- It was established in 1490 by Ahmad Nizam Shah I, a Bahmani governor, after the disintegration of the Bahmani Sultanate.
- Ahmadnagar was known for its strategic location and was frequently targeted by rival kingdoms and foreign powers.

Shahji's role:
- Shahji Bhonsle served as a military commander in the service of the Nizam Shahi dynasty, the ruling dynasty of Ahmadnagar.
- He played a pivotal role in defending Ahmadnagar from external threats and maintaining the stability of the kingdom.
- Shahji's military acumen and leadership skills were instrumental in safeguarding the kingdom from attacks by the Mughals, Adil Shahi Sultanate of Bijapur, and the Qutb Shahi Sultanate of Golcunda.

Alliances and Diplomacy:
- Shahji Bhonsle was adept at forging alliances and diplomatic maneuvers to protect Ahmadnagar's interests.
- He formed an alliance with the Bijapur Sultanate to counter the Mughal threat and successfully repelled their invasions.
- Shahji also entered into diplomatic negotiations with the Mughals and secured a treaty that recognized the autonomy of Ahmadnagar.

Shahji's Legacy:
- Shahji's efforts as a king-maker and his military achievements laid the foundation for the Maratha Empire, which became a dominant force in India under the leadership of his son, Shivaji Maharaj.
- His strategic vision and political astuteness in safeguarding Ahmadnagar played a crucial role in shaping the Deccan region's history.

In conclusion, Shahji Bhonsle played the role of a king-maker for Ahmadnagar, utilizing his military skills and diplomatic expertise to protect the kingdom from external threats and ensure its stability. His contributions were instrumental in laying the groundwork for the rise of the Maratha Empire.