12th century

During the 12th century, Kolhapur continued to develop as a politically and culturally significant region in the Deccan. Here's a summary of the main events and characteristics of Kolhapur during that period:

? 1. Rule of the Shilahara Dynasty Continues

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  The Southern Shilaharas remained in control of Kolhapur for much of the 12th century.

  
  


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  Key rulers included Gandaraditya, Kirtivarma, and Mallikarjuna.

  
  


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  These rulers maintained autonomy but were at times vals of larger empires such as:

  
  
  
  
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    The Western Chalukyas of Kalyani.

    
    
  
  
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    Later, the Yadava dynasty began erting control over parts of Maharashtra by the late 12th century.

    
    
  
  
  
  

? 2. Conflict and Shifting Power

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  The 12th century was marked by frequent conflicts between:

  
  
  
  
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    Western Chalukyas

    
    
  
  
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    Yadavas of Devagiri

    
    
  
  
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    Hoysalas from the south

    
    
  
  
  
  


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  Kolhapur, due to its strategic location, was caught between these warring powers and saw both military action and changing allegiances.

  
  

? 3. Temple Patronage and Architecture

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  The Mahalakshmi Temple in Kolhapur likely saw major renovations or expansions during this time under the patronage of Shilahara rulers.

  
  


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  This period was rich in temple construction, featuring detailed stone carvings and Dravidian architectural influence.

  
  


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  Inscriptions from the 12th century mention grants to temples, showing the importance of religion and temple economy.

  
  

? 4. Development of Literature and Culture

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  Sanskrit and Kannada inscriptions flourished.

  
  


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  Jain and Shaivite philosophies had a strong influence in the region.

  
  


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  The Shilaharas supported both Shaivism and Vaishnavism, and occasionally Jainism.

  
  


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  Devotional movements (precursors to the Bhakti movement) were beginning to stir across the Deccan.

  
  

? 5. Economic Growth

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  Kolhapur remained an agricultural and trade center, benefiting from fertile land and river systems like the Panchganga.

  
  


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  Local industries included weaving, metalwork, and temple arts.

  
  


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  Trade routes linked Kolhapur to Goa and other coastal ports on the Konkan coast, facilitating the movement of goods inland.