Option 1: Pandita Ramabai was a social reformer who worked for women`s education and upliftment. There is no known connection between her and the argument that Maratha rule represented early nationalist consciousness in India. Therefore, option 1 is not the correct answer.

Option 2: M G Ranade was a prominent social reformer and political leader in the late 19th century. While he played a significant role in India`s national movement, there is no specific connection between him and the argument that Maratha rule represented early nationalist consciousness. Therefore, option 2 is not the correct answer.

Option 3: Bipin Chandra Pal was one of the early leaders of the Indian nationalist movement. However, there is no evidence to suggest that he argued specifically for Maratha rule or Shivaji representing early nationalist consciousness. Therefore, option 3 is not the correct answer.

Option 4: Gopalkrishna Gokhale was a prominent social and political leader in the early 20th century. It is historically accurate to say that Gokhale argued that Maratha rule in general and Shivaji in particular represented early nationalist consciousness in India. Gokhale recognized Shivaji`s efforts in establishing a strong and independent state and saw him