My city, Kolhapur

My city, Kolhapur

|  ABOUT KOLHAPUR |

INTRODUCTION :

Kolhapur is an important city in Maharashtra and is known as Dakshin

Kashi from ancient time. It is a famous religious place due to

Mahalakshmi & Jotiba temples. The city is situated at a height of 1790 feet

above mean sea level and 16-42 North latitude and 74-14 East longitude.

The city stands on the bank of river Panchaganga, a tributary of the river

Krishna.

|HISTORICAL OVERVIEW OF KOLHAPUR CITY

History of a city echoes in the lifestyle of people and various organizations in the city . The

magnanimous development of Kolhapur city can be traced to its history. The various types of

transformations that occurred in Indian social life during historic and prehistoric times are seen

in Karvir region also. During the historic period from first century before C hrist to ninth century

AD, kolhapur was situated on the Brahmpuri hills. The excavations on the hill and the research

on items found there indicate that during Satwahan period there was wealthy and cultured

population staying there. From 225 AD to 550 AD there was dynasty of royal families of

Wakatak , Kadamb, Shedrak and Mourya. During 550 AD to 753 AD there was kingdom of

C halukya family from Badami.

In 634 AD, King Kamadeo from this family started construction of Mahalaxmi temple. Almost

all C halukys Kings address Kolhapur as ‘Dakshin Kashi’ or ‘Mahateerth’. In 753 AD to 850 AD

Rashtrakut dynasty was established in the south. Kolhapur region also came under their

jurisdiction. From that time to 1210 AD there was kingdom of Shilahar in Kolhapur. Kolhapur

has played a major role during that period as a main power center of Shilahaar kingdom.

Kolhapur has been referred as Mahateerth in the stone carvings during the period of

Gandaradivya King. He completed the construction of Mahalaxmi temple. His sister

C handrikadevi was married with C halukya King Second Vikramaditya and the wealth of

Kolhapur started growing. 

Brahmpuri, Uttareshwar, Kholkhandoba, Rankala, Padmala and Ravaneshwar were the main

natural centers of Kolhapur city in the ancient time. Hence the Kolhapur region was known as

of historical importance. The above centres were like small villages at that time. In ninth

century AD, Mahalaxmi temple was established and these centers were bound in to strong

cultural and financial center. Archeologists believe that stone carvings, literature and

architecture suggest that Mahalaxmi temple’s wealthy background cannot be taken back

beyond 9th century A. D. ie . Rashtrakoot dynasty.

It is equally important to examine the relation of name Kolhapur in the light of geographical

and cultural context. Karvir Peeth is referred as Dakshin Kashi in old literature. Mahalaxmi

lifted the city by her pious hands to a safe place during in Paralay calamity. Hence the city was

aptly named as ‘Karvir’. This hypothesis was suggested by Major Graham. In Karvir Mahatmya

It is mentioned that Karvirnagar is the city lifted by Mahalaxmi goddess with her hands. In Hari

Puran also there is a mention of Karvir.

C ity was referred as Karvir after the installation of Mahalaxmi temple. Before that, there were

many names like Kolhapur, Kollpur, Kollagiri, Kolladigiripattan. Kolla means valley and

Kolhapur means city of vallies. In shot, Brahmapuri, Karvir and Kolhapur are different names

for this place. After the establishment of Mahalaxmi temple, Kolhapur was recognized as a

religious center and gave rise to various cultural and financial developments. 

There was kingdom of Shilahar in Kolhapur during 12th century AD. In 1210AD, King

Sighandev of Devgiri Defeated Shilahar kingdom of Kolhapur. It was leading capital of one

province of Yadav kindom of Devgiri. In 1298 AD Yadav of Devgiri were defeated and Muslim

dynasty was established in Kolhapur during 1306 AD to 1307. After Shri. C hhatrapati Shivaji

Maharaj conquered Panhalgad in 1659, Kolhapur became part of Maratha kingdom. Kolhapur

played a major role in freedom war of Shivaji. During the period of Maharani Tarabai,

Kolhapur Attained the status of capital city. After the establishment of Karvir kingdom, there

was rapid growth of the city.

In 5th century Ad, Jain came in Kolhapur. In 13th century, Vidyashankar Bharti established

MATH of Shrungeri Peeth. Kolhapur attained the prestigious status name of Daxin Kashi due to

such religious centers. New habitats and lanes got developed. Mahalaxmi temple became the

main center of gravity and growth of city started accordingly. In 17th century, Kolhapur was at

the summit6 of wealth due to its role as political power center. In 19th century, city played a

role of social upliftment movement during the period of Rajarshi Shahu Maharaj.

DEMOGRAPHY :

The Kolhapur city is situated at 16.7000 N latitude and 74.2333 E longitude. Stand on a rising

ground about 1790 feet above the sea level. The topography of the city shows many

undulations and the ground is generally sloping from south to north towards the Panchaganga

River. It has on area of 66.82 Sq.Kms. Decadal population data for Kolhapur from 1951 to

2001 is as below.

Projected Population for 2011 - 2031 is as tabulated below :

OUTSTANDING FEATURES OF THE CITY :

Due to establishment of Shivaji University, the sphere of educational activities in the city has

expanded enormously. Similarly, establishment of two M.I.D.C . industrial estates i.e. at Shiroli

and Gokul Shirgaon has widened the scope of employment facilities which has actually

attracted surrounding people to the C ity. The jaggery of Kolhapur is famous throughout India

and regulated market facility for the same has made the city an important marketing city of

ndia in jaggery. So also ample production of sugarcane in the surrounding areas of the city

has given impetus to the establishment of sugar factories though out the district. The wrestling

has given impetus to the establishment of sugar factories though out the district. The wrestling

arena which is the only one of its type in the country is a proud possession of the city.

TRANSPORT & COMMUNICATION :

Roads in the city are like veins of the human body. the modes of communication have a 'Lion's

Share' in the progress of any city/country. Kolhapur has been recognized as an important

eligious and commercial center of the region. It is at a distance of 395km from Mumbai, the

capital of maharashtra and 235km from Pune. The coastal line (western) is only 75km away

rom Kolhapur & hence is known as 'Door of Konkan'. The national highway no.4 (poonaBangalore

highway)passes through Kolhapur. 

Kolhapur is a center of central railway, having a railway terminal station named "C hhatrapati Shahu Tarminus". Now a days, the proposal of connection Kolhapur terminal to Konkan railway is under consideration. Kolhapur is also having an airport at 'Ujalaiwadi' located near NH-4. Kolhapur is an important linkage between Konkan and rest of the state. It is connected to Konkan by various Ghats.

|  HOW TO REACH » FLIGHT |

  HOW TO REACH » BY RAIL |

|   PARKS AND LAKES |

Ancient Kolhapur |

|  PUBLIC UTILITY SERVICES 

|  ENTERTAINMENTS » THEATRE |

 Library |

There are 4 libraries availed by KMC for citizens. Number of books, periodicals and members.

 Khasbag Wrestling Ground

Rajashri shahu Kashbag wrestling ground is on west side of Keshvrao Bhosale Drama theatre..It is used for wrestling competitions surrounding the main westing area there is open space for 15 to 2000 spectactors. There are total five gates for entering into this wrestling ground. On the east side of the ground there is a big stage of 35*35 size.In addition to wrestling competition big song programs or programs like cine artist performances are arranged on this ground.

S.No	Type of Wrestling	Deposit	Rent
1.	Wrestling private part(without ticket)	1000	1000
2.	Talim sangh	1000	1200
3.	Private organisation with ticket	2000	1500
4.	Wrestling play recognised educational institution and people.	2000	2500
5.	Entertainment program (With ticket)	2000	2500
6.	Entertainment program (Without ticket)	2000	1500

Holy Places

Shivaji University

Shivaji University is one of the seven universities in Maharashtra.The university was founded in 1962. The jurisdiction of the university covers Kolhapur, Satara and Sangli districts. There is a great statue of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj. There are many buildings concern with study of various subjects and the area is surrounded by beautiful garden. There is a large and attractive library building. Thus the university area is developed to provide an ideal academic scenario.

Rajarshi Shahu Kashbag wrestling ground

 

Rajarshi Shahu Kashbag wrestling ground is on west side of Keshavrao Bhosale Drama theatre. It is used for wrestling competitions surrounding the main west area there is open space for 15 to 2000 spectators. There are total five gates for entering this wrestling ground. On the east side of the ground there is a big stage of 35*35 size. In adittion to wrestling competition, big singing programes or shows by cine artist are arranged on this ground.It is an architectural beauty.

Kolhapur city is famous for the game of wrestling in India. Shri Shahu Khasbag ground is honourable for the people in this field. This ground has seen many small to medium competitions, numerous wrestlers and has satisfied crores of people. This is located in Mangalwar Peth and is stationed at just 5 minutes of walking distance from old palace. This is a special ground and rare to find anywhere else.  This full round shaped ground with the playing area right at the centre of it. Simultaneously 4-5 wrestling pairs play in this central playing portion. There are slanted seating arrangements so that everybody can enjoy the games. Due to this, the ground looks lilke a circular concave bowl. There are entrances on the east and west sides of the ground. There is a stage for invited and honourable persons and is covered by pavilion. Surrounding the ground there are raised steel bases which keep the spectators at appropriate distance and prevent from entering the ground. About 25 to 30 thousand people can sit here. Main entrance is on the east side and has Keshavrao Bhosale drama theatre on its side Shri Mahalaxmi  In kolhapur, Ambabai is the most honoured deity. This temple had not been here, there would not have been Kolhapur city here as well. It can be said that by the virtue of blessings of Shri Mahalaxmi, Kolhapur has got great sons like Shri Shahu Chhatrapati and Shri Rajaram Maharaj who worked for the welfare and development of Kolhapur. Foundation of current development of Kolhapur is laid by the temple of Shri Mahalaxmi. Its development has been supported by the kings. This temple is in the heart of the city near old palace. This grand and beautiful temple of 'Hemadpanti' stands exemplry for demostration of ancient architechtural skills. This temple is star shaped and it is 2 storied. Other than the idol of Shri Mahalaxmi, there are idols of Mahasaraswati on the south side, Mahakali on the north side and idols of Ganapati on the 2nd floor. In front of main temple, there is a entrance mandap viz 'Garud mandap'. In Navaratri, grand festival is celebrated here. All other times, it is used for praying and presentations. The path to offer revolutions around the temple is inside the temple and is very peculiar. On both sides of mandap, there are idols of Bharat and Shatrughna carved out. There is manimanda few feet ahead. The statues of the door-keepers viz. Jay and Vijay and the artistic sculpture are very attractive. The main location is the place where idol of Mahalaxmi is placed. It is said that till 1722, the idol of Shri Mahalaxmi was kept hidden or 200 years to save it from the attack of Muslims. On the outside of the main temple, sculpture of 64 dancing devotee girls and additional work can be observed. In the surroundings of the Shri Mahalaxmi temple, there are idols of other deities. It includes 'Sheshshayi', 'Navgrih' and 'Ashtdikpal mandap'. Though idol of Sheshshayi is not so attractive, the delicate and beautiful sculpture in front of it and 'Jain Tirthankar' are worth a special visit. Navagrah Mandap is an excellent example of ancient indian sculture. Other than this, there are small temples like Dattatray, Harihareshwar, Mukteshwari, Vithoba, Kashivishveshwar, Ram, Radhbhavani, Krishna, Tulajabhavani, mahadeva etc. Tembalai alias Tryamboli On the small hill near old Pune - Bangalore road there is a temple of tembalai goddess. ' Tembalai ' goddess is a younger sister of Mahalaxmi.It is said that due to quarrel with Mahalaxmi she left kolhapur and stayed here by keeping back towards Mahalaxmi. Every year on ' Ashwin shudh panchami ' Mahalaxmi is taken through palanquine for meeting Tembalai goddess. The statue of Ambabai is put in palanquine and carried in a procession to Tembalai. There is a beautiful garden near the temple on the tembalai hill. At night the shining Kolhapur area due to lamps can be seen from this place and this scene is very attractive. Jotiba  Popularly known as 'Daxin kashi', karveer has extra-ordinary importance in the epics. Kolhaour is famous due to pilgrimage spots like the king of deccan - shri Jotiba, Shri Katyayani devi, Shrikshetra Dattatraya emple at Nrisimhwadi, Jain mandir at Bahubali, Darga of Vishalgad. Out of all these pilgrimage spots, Shri Jotiba at Wadi Ratnagiri is famous as a deity of the community. Being about 3100 feet high from sea-level, there are bounties of beauty in this region. It adds brilliance in the prosperity of Kolhaur, hence efforts are being made for all-round development of this region. This village is situated in hills and hosts about 5000 villagers, out of which 99% are related to 'gurav' community. They earn their liviing through performing religious rites, selling coconuts, sweets, red powder, etc. Popularly known as Wadi Ratnagiri, Jotiba is situated 17.5 km distant south-west from Kolhapur. One can observe a trunk-like portion rising like a conch on the range of Sahyadris extending as Panhalgad, Pavangad which is nothing else than hill of Jotiba. There is the ancient famous Jotiba temple. Badrikedar incarnated as Jotiba/ Kedareshwar. It is believed that Jotiba is combination of divine powers of Brahma, Vishnu, Mahesh and Jamadagni.The word 'Jotiba' is constructed from the word 'Jot' which in Marathi means 'light'. Out of the five air, light, water, sky and the earth main elements of life, Jotiba is considered to represent the light. Paugand rishi did not have any children. He satisfied Badrinath by hard worship. Badrinath promised to incarnate as a child of Pougand Rishi and his wife, Vimalambuja. Keeping the promise, Rishi incarnated as 8 years old child in front of the couple. This is none other than Jotiba. Vimalambuja sincerely wished her son to be saviour and espouser of the poor. And Kedarnath satisfied her by his incarnation. It is said that jotiba likes coconut and dried dates, 'Davana/marava'. Formerly there had been a very small temple where we see today a developed one. The temple was originally built by a devotee Raoji in Kival near Karad. In the year 1730 , King of Gwalior, Ranojirao Shinde reconstructed with renovation. This temple is constructed using Besalt. In 1808, Daulatrao Shinde built 2nd temple of Kedareshwar which is standing without any support. In between Kedarling and Kedareshwar, there is temple of 'Charpatamba'/ 'Chopadai'. It was constructed by Preetirao Chauhan ( Himmatbahadoor) in 1750. These three temples form a group. Malaji Nikam - Panhalkar built the fourth temple at Samashwari in 1780. Rankala Lake  Rankal Lake is an important place in Kolhapur with historical and cultural significance. It is a constant inspiration to cinema shooting, writers and artists. Kolhapur citizens have a great affinity with this lake. There is a Shalini palace and Shantakiran studio where one can witness the cinema shooting with prior permission. The lake is large and spacious. There is temple of Rank Bhairav at the center of the lake. The name rankala to the lake is also derived from this god. There are two ghats for the lake, one Rajghat and other Marathghat. There is a Rankala tower on the Rajghat. In front of it is Shalini palace. Rankala choupati is very famous and attractive to citizens and tourists. In the pleasent evening atmosphere, this choupaty gets crouded with tourists and citizens. Tourists enjoy boating, children park, horse riding and stalls of eatables. Shalini Palace  This palace is on the north side of Rankala lake and the construction is new. This is a two storied building with a four small towers on the four corners. One side of the building is Rankala Lake and area is beautified. It is a place of natural beauty. There is a facility of boating also. The building was erected during 1931 - 1934. Town Hall |

There is large town hall garden on the road between old palace and Dasara square. The town hall museum managed by Maharashtra government is here. In this museum there are many antique, beautiful paintings, war arms, sculptures in stone and sandal wood. The museum is closed on Sunday and working time is 10.30 a.m. to 5.30 p.m.

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