Marathas first gained significant administrative and military experience by serving under the Deccan Sultanates, primarily Ahmednagar and Bijapur. Shivaji’s father, Shahaji Bhonsle, was a high-ranking official under Bijapur. This service provided the Maratha nobility with crucial knowledge of revenue administration, diplomacy and military organization necessary for their later independence. ANSWER: (A) Under Ahmednagar, Bijapur and Golconda
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The Marathas first acquired crucial administrative and military expertise serving the Deccan Sultanates, namely Ahmednagar, Bijapur and to an extent, Golconda. Maratha Sardars (chiefs) like Shahaji Bhonsle, Shivaji’s father, held high Jagirs (land grants) and commanded large forces, learning the intricate Mughal-style revenue and military systems. This invaluable experience in handling state affairs and managing large armies formed the practical foundation upon which Shivaji later built the independent Maratha state.