The ruler who signed the Subsidiary Alliance with the British East India Company, bringing Travancore under British influence, was:

Marthanda Varma
Karthika Thirunal
Balarama Varma
Swathi Thirunal

The correct answer is: A) Marthanda Varma.

Marthanda Varma was the ruler of Travancore from 1729 to 1758. He is considered to be the founder of modern Travancore. He was a powerful and ambitious ruler who expanded the kingdom’s territory and brought it under his control. He also introduced a number of reforms, including the establishment of a modern army and bureaucracy.

In 1753, Marthanda Varma signed a Subsidiary Alliance with the British East India Company. This alliance gave the British Company control over Travancore’s foreign affairs and military. In return, the Company agreed to provide military assistance to Travancore in the event of an attack.

The Subsidiary Alliance was a significant event in Travancore’s history. It brought the kingdom under British influence and led to a number of changes in the way the kingdom was governed. However, it also helped to protect Travancore from external threats and allowed it to remain independent for many years.

The other options are incorrect because:

  • B) Karthika Thirunal was the ruler of Travancore from 1884 to 1924. He was a progressive ruler who introduced a number of reforms, including the establishment of a modern education system and the construction of roads and railways. However, he did not sign a Subsidiary Alliance with the British East India Company.
  • C) Balarama Varma was the ruler of Travancore from 1790 to 1810. He was a weak and indecisive ruler who was unable to prevent the British from taking control of Travancore. He did not sign a Subsidiary Alliance with the British East India Company.
  • D) Swathi Thirunal was the ruler of Travancore from 1829 to 1847. He was a talented musician and poet. However, he did not sign a Subsidiary Alliance with the British East India Company.