Question

At the time of Aurangzeb’s death, the Marathas leadership was in whose hands?
a. Jija Bai
b. Sambhaji
c. Rajaram
d. Tara Bai

Answer 1

Hint:
After the death of Aurangzeb his son Bahadur Shah occupied the throne, the Maratha Empire – which Aurangzeb had held at bay, consolidated and launched effective invasions of Mughal territory, seizing power from the weak emperor.

Complete step by step solution:
Muhi-ud-Din Muhammad ( born: 3 November 1618 – death: 3 March 1707), known by the Aurangzeb. He was also known by his given title Alamgir that means “Conqueror of the World". He was the sixth Mughal emperor, who ruled over the entire Indian subcontinent for a period of 49 years. He was widely considered to be the last effective ruler of the Mughal Empire. He was a known military leader whose rule has been the subject of praise. Though he has also been the most controversial ruler in Indian history. Aurangzeb's son, Bahadur Shah I, succeeded Aurangzeb and the empire, both because of Aurangzeb's over-extension and because of Bahadur Shah's weak military and leadership qualities.

Tarabai Bhonsale ( Born: 1675 – Death: 1761), She was daughter-in-law of the empire's founder Maharaja Shivaji and mother of Shivaji II. She came up in keeping alive the resistance against the Mughal occupation of Maratha territories after the death of her spouse and acted as regent during the minority of her son. Her efforts for the preservation of indigenous culture is widely lauded.

Tarabai took all the charges of the war against Aurangzeb's forces. Tarabai was skilled in cavalry movement and made strategic movements by herself during wars. She led the war and continued the fight bravely against the Mughals. Later, Tarabai continued the Maratha resistance. By 1705, Marathas had crossed the Narmada River and made small incursions in Malwa, retreating immediately.

Hence, the correct answer is option D.

Note:
The Maratha country was glad at the news of the death of Mughal emperor Aurangzeb. He died at Khuldabad in Aurangabad in 1707. Tarabai was the official of the Maratha Empire of India from 1700 to 1708.