Kingdom of Travancore in the 18th century

Choose the Correct Answer

Correct Answer : Option d

Explanation
At the beginning of the 18th century, Kerala was divided into a large number of feudal chiefs and rajas. The kingdom of Travancore rose into prominence after 1729 under King Martanda Varma, one of the leading statesmen of the 18th century. Martanda Varma organized a strong army on the western model with the help of European officers and armed it with modern weapons. He also constructed a modern arsenal. Martanda Varma used his new army to expand northwards and the boundaries of Travancore soon extended from Kanyakumari to Cochin. Martanda Varma undertook many irrigation works, built roads and canals for communication, and gave active encouragement to foreign trade. Marthanda Varma and subsequent rulers were patrons of art and literature. The era saw a resurgence in the development of Malayalam literature and cultural activities.The decisive victory at the Battle of Colachel effectively ended Dutch influence in the region, marking a turning point in the history of European colonial powers in South India. Hence, all the statements are correct.