8th century

During the 8th century CE, Kolhapur underwent important transitions, especially influenced by shifts in regional power, religious activity, and cultural developments in the Deccan. Here’s what likely happened in Kolhapur during the 8th century:

?️ 1. Decline of Chalukyas & Rise of Rashtrakutas

• The Chalukyas of Badami lost control in the mid-8th century.


• Around 753 CE, Dantidurga, a feudatory of the Chalukyas, founded the Rashtrakuta dynasty, with its capital at Manyakheta (present-day Malkhed, Karnataka).


• Kolhapur came under Rashtrakuta rule, making it part of a vast empire that extended from the Ganges to the Kaveri rivers.

? 2. Flourishing of Mahalakshmi Worship

• The worship of Goddess Mahalakshmi became even more prominent.


• The foundations or early expansions of the Mahalakshmi Temple of Kolhapur likely occurred or solidified during this era.


• The Shakta tradition and the concept of Shakti Peethas (sacred sites of the goddess) gained importance, with Kolhapur being one of them.

? 3. Rashtrakuta Patronage of Art and Architecture

• The Rashtrakutas were great patrons of art, seen in their support for grand temple architecture and rock-cut cave temples like Ellora.


• Kolhapur likely saw the construction or enhancement of stone temples, possibly influenced by Dravidian and Deccan styles.


• Local artisans contributed to temple sculpture, including deity images and decorative carvings.

⚒️ 4. Urban and Economic Growth

• Under the Rashtrakutas, Kolhapur remained an important trade and administrative center.


• Regional trade continued with ports on the Konkan coast and cities further inland.


• Agriculture expanded through irrigation systems, and local production of iron tools, textiles, and ornaments increased.

? 5. Cultural and Religious Syncretism

• While Hinduism (especially Shaivism and Shaktism) dominated, Buddhism and Jainism still had local followers.


• The use of Sanskrit and Kannada in inscriptions and administration grew.


• Education, temple rituals, and scholarly activity continued around temple institutions.