The correct answer is: b) Collaborative at times.
The British East India Company (EIC) first established trading posts in India in the early 17th century. Over time, the EIC began to exert more and more control over the Indian subcontinent, eventually becoming the dominant power in the region. The British government took over control of the EIC in 1858, and India became a British colony.
The relationship between the British and the rulers of feudatory states was complex and varied over time. In some cases, the British were able to establish close relationships with local rulers, who were willing to collaborate with the British in order to maintain their own power and status. In other cases, the British were met with resistance from local rulers, who saw the British as a threat to their independence.
Overall, the relationship between the British and the rulers of feudatory states was one of collaboration at times, but also of mutual distrust and conflict.
Option a) is incorrect because the relationship between the British and the rulers of feudatory states was not always hostile. In some cases, the British were able to establish close relationships with local rulers, who were willing to collaborate with the British in order to maintain their own power and status.
Option c) is incorrect because the relationship between the British and the rulers of feudatory states was not based on mutual distrust. In some cases, the British were able to establish close relationships with local rulers, who were willing to collaborate with the British in order to maintain their own power and status.
Option d) is incorrect because the relationship between the British and the rulers of feudatory states was not marked by frequent uprisings. There were some uprisings against British rule, but these were not frequent.