Correct Option
The correct option is (c) 1 and 3 only.
Explanation
Rani Durgawati was the ruling queen of Garha Katanga (Gondwana). Her reign is noted for her capable administration and her fierce resistance against the Mughal expansion during the reign of Emperor Akbar. The kingdom of Garha Katanga was a rich state, earning wealth by trapping and exporting wild elephants to other kingdoms.
Statement-wise Analysis
- Statement 1 is Correct: Rani Durgawati was the daughter of Salbahan, the Chandel Rajput Raja of Mahoba. She was married to Dalpat, the son of the Gond Raja Aman Das (who had assumed the title of Sangram Shah). This marriage alliance between the Chandel Rajputs and the Gonds was significant in the region's political history.
- Statement 2 is Incorrect: Upon the death of her husband, Dalpat, Rani Durgawati was not removed from power. Instead, she assumed the reins of the government on behalf of her five-year-old son, Bir Narayan. Under her regency, the kingdom became more extensive and she ruled capably for several years.
- Statement 3 is Correct: In 1565, the Mughal forces under Asaf Khan attacked Garha Katanga. Despite putting up a strong resistance, Rani Durgawati was defeated. When she realized that defeat was imminent and escape was impossible, she chose to stab herself and die fighting rather than surrender to the Mughal forces. Her son, Bir Narayan, also died fighting soon after.
Key Takeaway
Rani Durgawati served as the regent of the Gond kingdom of Garha Katanga and is celebrated for her martyrdom while resisting the Mughal invasion led by Asaf Khan during Akbar's reign.