The correct option is
A-4, B-3, C-2, D-1
Explanation
During the 18th century, the Maratha Empire evolved into a loose confederacy of powerful military chiefs (Sardars). While the Peshwa at Pune remained the nominal head, these chiefs carved out autonomous spheres of influence in Northern, Central, and Western India as the Mughal Empire disintegrated.Statement-wise Analysis
The correct matching of the Maratha families with their seats of power is as follows:- A. Sindhia (Scindia) - Gwalior (4): The Scindia dynasty, founded by Ranoji Scindia, established its capital at Gwalior and became a dominant power in Central India.
- B. Gaekwad - Baroda (3): The Gaekwads established their rule over the Gujarat region, with Baroda (Vadodara) as their capital.
- C. Bhonsle - Nagpur (2): The Bhonsles of Nagpur (distinct from the Chhatrapati's line at Satara) controlled the Vidarbha region and expanded towards Orissa and Bengal.
- D. Holkar - Indore (1): Malhar Rao Holkar founded the Holkar dynasty, which ruled the Malwa region with its headquarters at Indore.
Key Takeaway
The Maratha Confederacy consisted of five major centers of power:- Peshwa at Pune
- Sindhia at Gwalior
- Holkar at Indore
- Gaekwad at Baroda
- Bhonsle at Nagpur