Correct option is D
The successor of Maharaja Ranjit Singh was his eldest son, Khadag Singh. He ascended the throne after Ranjit Singh's death in 1839.
Information Booster:
- Maharaja Ranjit Singh was the founder of the Sikh Empire and ruled from 1799 to 1839.
- Khadag Singh succeeded him but ruled for only a brief period due to political instability.
- After Khadag Singh's death, his son Naunihal Singh briefly took power but died mysteriously.
- This period marked the beginning of the decline of the Sikh Empire.
- Sher Singh, another of Ranjit Singh's sons, became Maharaja later during turbulent times.
- Harisingh Nalwa was one of Ranjit Singh's most trusted generals but never ruled as a successor.
Additional Knowledge:
- Harisingh Nalwa: Known for his military prowess and leadership.
- Sher Singh: Ruled from 1841 to 1843.
- Naunihal Singh: Died under suspicious circumstances in 1840 after Khadag Singh.
Key Points to Increase Knowledge:
- Maharaja Ranjit Singh united the Punjab region into a strong empire.
- His death led to a power vacuum, causing a series of weak rulers.
- The Sikh Empire was eventually annexed by the British in 1849 after the Anglo-Sikh Wars.