7th century

During the 7th century CE, Kolhapur was part of a politically and culturally vibrant region of the Deccan. This period saw the continued rule of the Early Chalukyas of Badami, along with significant religious, architectural, and economic development. Here's a comprehensive look at what likely happened in Kolhapur during the 7th century:

?️ What Happened in Kolhapur During the 7th Century CE?

1. Rule of the Early Chalukyas (Badami Chalukyas)

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  Kolhapur remained under the control of the Chalukyas of Badami, one of the most powerful dynasties in South and Western India.

  
  


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  Pulakeshin II (610–642 CE) was the most famous Chalukya ruler. He defeated Harshavardhana of North India and extended Chalukya power throughout the western Deccan, including Kolhapur.

  
  


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  His successors like Vikramaditya I (reigned c. 655–680 CE) continued to rule over the region.

  
  

✅ Kolhapur was likely administered by Chalukya-appointed feudatories or governors.

2. Conflict with the Pallavas

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  Pulakeshin II’s reign saw a major conflict with the Pallavas of Kanchipuram in the south.

  
  


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  Though these battles were more centered in Karnataka and Tamil Nadu, Kolhapur may have been affected by military mobilization and defense activity.

  
  

3. Rise of Local Feudatories

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  While the Chalukyas controlled the region, local feudatories such as the Sendrakas and possibly early Shilaharas began to emerge in western Maharashtra.

  
  


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  These rulers controlled parts of Kolhapur and nearby areas under Chalukya overlordship.

  
  

? Religious and Cultural Developments

1. Shaivism and Mahalakshmi Worship

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  Shaivism flourished under Chalukya patronage.

  
  


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  The worship of Goddess Mahalakshmi in Kolhapur likely became institutionalized, possibly with early temple structures being developed or expanded.

  
  


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  Kolhapur may have hosted Brahmin settlements (agraharas) due to land grants from kings and feudatories.

  
  

2. Architecture

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  Early Dravidian-style temples began appearing across the Deccan.

  
  


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  Kolhapur may have had brick or stone temples, reflecting Chalukyan influence.

  
  

?️ Economy and Trade

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  Agriculture was the economic base, supported by irrigation and river systems (like Panchganga).

  
  


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  Kolhapur’s location along Deccan trade routes linked it to:

  
  
  
  
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    Coastal ports (like Sopara, Kalyan)

    
    
  
  
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    Inland cities (like Badami, Paithan)

    
    
  
  
  
  


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  Trade included cotton textiles, iron, pottery, grains, oil, and beads.

  
  

? Language and Inscriptions

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  Sanskrit was used for official inscriptions and grants.

  
  


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  Early Marathi and Prakrit dialects were spoken locally.

  
  


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  Copperplate land grant inscriptions began to appear in nearby areas, indicating the growth of administrative literacy.