Final answer:
Maharaja Ranjit Singh initially maintained friendly relations with the British but tensions arose as the British expanded their control over India.
Step-by-step explanation:
Maharaja Ranjit Singh was the ruler of the Sikh Empire in the early 19th century, while the British were expanding their control over India through the British East India Company. Initially, Ranjit Singh maintained friendly relations with the British and signed treaties with them. However, as the British continued to expand their control, tensions between Ranjit Singh and the British arose. The relationship between Maharaja Ranjit Singh and the British can be characterized as one of cautious cooperation mixed with increasing rivalry and conflict.