Which of the following dynasties belonged to the Maratha Confederacy? 1. Sindhia 2. Holkar 3. Gaikwad 4. Bhonsle Select the correct answer:

The correct option is (d). Explanation The Maratha Confederacy was a decentralized federal structure that evolved in the 18th century, particularly under the Peshwas. As the Maratha Empire expanded, it became difficult to administer centrally. Consequently, semi-autonomous Maratha chieftains were granted authority over specific regions, forming a confederacy with the Peshwa at Pune as the executive head. Analysis of Dynasties: - 1. Sindhia (Scindia): Correct. This dynasty established its seat of power in Gwalior and controlled significant territories in Central India. - 2. Holkar: Correct. This dynasty ruled from Indore and was dominant in the Malwa region. - 3. Gaikwad: Correct. This dynasty established its authority in Baroda (Vadodara) and controlled the Gujarat region. - 4. Bhonsle: Correct. This branch of the Maratha chiefs established themselves in Nagpur and controlled the Berar region and parts of Orissa. Key Takeaway: The five main pillars of the Maratha Confederacy were the Peshwa (Pune), Gaikwad (Baroda), Holkar (Indore), Sindhia (Gwalior), and Bhonsle (Nagpur).

NCERT Class 8 History — Chapter 1: From Trade to Territory The Company Establishes Power

mcqeasy

Which of the following dynasties belonged to the Maratha Confederacy?

Sindhia
Holkar
Gaikwad
Bhonsle

Select the correct answer:

Official previous-year question

Verified 1 Aug 2026.

Options

A1 and 2 only
B2 and 3 only
C3 and 4 only
D1, 2, 3 and 4

Did you get this right?

Solution

The correct option is (d).

Explanation

The Maratha Confederacy was a decentralized federal structure that evolved in the 18th century, particularly under the Peshwas. As the Maratha Empire expanded, it became difficult to administer centrally. Consequently, semi-autonomous Maratha chieftains were granted authority over specific regions, forming a confederacy with the Peshwa at Pune as the executive head.

Analysis of Dynasties:

1. Sindhia (Scindia): Correct. This dynasty established its seat of power in Gwalior and controlled significant territories in Central India.
2. Holkar: Correct. This dynasty ruled from Indore and was dominant in the Malwa region.
3. Gaikwad: Correct. This dynasty established its authority in Baroda (Vadodara) and controlled the Gujarat region.
4. Bhonsle: Correct. This branch of the Maratha chiefs established themselves in Nagpur and controlled the Berar region and parts of Orissa.

Key Takeaway:
The five main pillars of the Maratha Confederacy were the Peshwa (Pune), Gaikwad (Baroda), Holkar (Indore), Sindhia (Gwalior), and Bhonsle (Nagpur).

Your note

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