The correct answer is: A. Mahadji Scindia.
Mahadji Scindia was a Maratha general and statesman who served as the de facto ruler of the Maratha Empire from 1785 to 1794. He was born in 1730 in the town of Scindia in the Malwa region of central India. His father, Ranoji Scindia, was a Maratha general who served under the Peshwa, the head of the Maratha Empire.
Mahadji Scindia began his military career at a young age and quickly rose through the ranks. He distinguished himself in several battles against the Mughal Empire and the Nizam of Hyderabad. In 1785, he was appointed as the Peshwa’s deputy in the Malwa region.
Mahadji Scindia proved to be a capable administrator and statesman. He restored order to the Malwa region and expanded the Maratha Empire’s territory. He also played a key role in the Third Anglo-Maratha War (1785-1792).
In 1794, Mahadji Scindia died at the age of 64. He was succeeded by his son, Madhav Rao Scindia.
Mahadji Scindia was a powerful and influential figure in the history of India. He was a brilliant military strategist and a skilled diplomat. He played a key role in the expansion of the Maratha Empire and the Third Anglo-Maratha War. He was also a capable administrator and statesman who restored order to the Malwa region and expanded the Maratha Empire’s territory.
The other options are incorrect because:
- Madhav Rao Scindia was the son of Mahadji Scindia and succeeded him as the ruler of the Maratha Empire in 1794.
- Rajaji Scindia was a Maratha general who served under Mahadji Scindia.
- Raja Umed Singh was a Rajput ruler who ruled the state of Jodhpur from 1724 to 1749.