Class 8 Social Science Chapter 3 NCERT Solutions: The Rise of the Marathas

NCERT Solutions for Class 8 Social Science Chapter 3 The Rise of the Marathas (2025-26)

Questions and Activities

1. Analyse how geography (particularly mountains and coastlines) guided Maratha military strategy and state formation.

Answer: The Marathas made strategic use of the Western Ghats and the Konkan coast. Forts atop mountains provided natural defence and surveillance points, while the rugged terrain favored their guerrilla tactics. The long coastline enabled them to develop a navy, defend against maritime threats, and control regional trade routes.

2. Create a short biography of a Maratha leader (Kanhoji Angre, Bajirao I, Mahadji Shinde, Ahilyabai Holkar, or Tarabai). Highlight the challenges they overcame.

Answer: Kanhoji Angre, the renowned admiral of the Maratha navy, fiercely protected India’s western coast from European powers during the 18th century. Despite facing technologically advanced navies and political intrigue, his clever tactics and leadership kept Maratha naval supremacy intact and secured safe passage for Indian merchants.

3. If you could visit a Maratha fort (Raigad, Sindhudurg, Gingee, Pratapgad), which would you choose and why? Research and present on its history and importance.

Answer: I would visit Raigad Fort, the coronation site of Shivaji Maharaj. Its strategic location, massive ramparts, secret passages, and historic buildings made it the heart of Maratha power. Raigad symbolizes glory, resilience, and Shivaji’s vision of Swarajya, with breathtaking views and invaluable historical significance.

4. “The British took India from the Marathas more than from the Mughals or any other power.” Explain this, supporting with chapter evidence.

Answer: After the decline of the Mughal Empire, the Marathas built the largest Indian empire, controlling Delhi and vast regions. The British fought three wars to defeat them, facing their strong military and administration. Only after overpowering the Marathas did British rule fully expand over India.

5. Compare Shivaji’s treatment of religious sites with later Marathas. What shows their attitude to religious diversity?

Answer: Shivaji showed respect for all religions, forbidding harm to sacred places. He protected Islamic sites during conquests. Later Marathas continued this policy of tolerance, promoting cultural inclusivity and protecting religious diversity, which is reflected in their governance and interfaith engagements.

6. Why were forts “the core of the state” for Marathas? How did forts help them against stronger enemies?

Answer: Marathas built forts atop hills and along the coast for defense, control, and communication. These forts offered secure bases, storing supplies, and withstood prolonged sieges. Forts enabled Marathas to retreat, regroup, and launch quick attacks against much stronger adversaries, ensuring survival through tough times.

7. Design a Maratha coin representing their achievements. Explain your chosen symbols.

Answer: The coin’s front would bear Shivaji’s name in Devanagari script and his seal, symbolizing sovereignty. The back would display a ship (naval power), a book (wisdom), and clasped hands (respect for all faiths), reflecting the Marathas’ achievements in power, knowledge, and religious tolerance.

8. What was the Marathas’ most important contribution to Indian history? Write a paragraph with supporting evidence.

Answer: The Marathas revived Indian self-rule after the Mughals, creating new governance systems and inspiring nationalism. Their sophisticated military, decentralised administration, and religious tolerance sparked cultural resurgence and political unity. Their legacy inspired future leaders and India’s freedom movement through the ideal of Swarajya.

The Rise of the Marathas: Key Concepts for Class 8

Mastering NCERT solutions for Class 8 Social Science Chapter 3 The Rise of the Marathas helps students understand how the Maratha Empire rose to prominence. The chapter highlights their unique governance, military innovations, and cultural revival, all crucial for building a strong foundation in history.

Consistent practice of exercise-based questions from this chapter is the best way to boost exam readiness. Focus on key topics like Maratha administration, major wars, and their impact on Indian society for high-scoring answers in 2025-26 exams.

To excel, revisit important summary points and timelines. This approach helps reinforce learning and improves retention, ensuring you’re fully prepared for test-day challenges on The Rise of the Marathas in Social Science.