17th century

The 17th century (1601–1700) was a foundational and transformative period for Kolhapur and its surrounding region, as it played a key role in the rise of the Maratha Empire and the military campaigns of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj. Here's a breakdown of the major events and developments in Kolhapur during that century:

? 1. Early 1600s: Under Adil Shahi Rule

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  Kolhapur was part of the Bijapur Sultanate, ruled by the Adil Shahi dynasty.

  
  


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  The region was governed through local military officers (sardars) and jagirdars (landholders).

  
  


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  The Mahalakshmi Temple continued to be an important spiritual and cultural center.

  
  


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  Forts like Panhala, Bhudargad, and Vishalgad were key military strongholds.

  
  

? 2. 1630s–1640s: Rise of Shivaji Maharaj

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  Shivaji Bhosale, born in 1630, began consolidating power in the Pune and surrounding regions.

  
  


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  He began capturing forts and building a kingdom independent of Adil Shahi and Mughal rule.

  
  


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  The Kolhapur region, including Panhala Fort, became strategically important.

  
  

? 3. 1659–1660: Battle of Panhala & Escape to Vishalgad

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  One of the most significant events in Kolhapur’s 17th-century history:

  
  
  
  
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    Shivaji was besieged at Panhala Fort by Adil Shahi general Siddi Jauhar.

    
    
  
  
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    In a daring escape with the help of Baji Prabhu Deshpande, Shivaji fled to Vishalgad Fort.

    
    
  
  
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    Baji Prabhu made a legendary last stand at Ghodkhind, later renamed Pavan Khind (Sacred P).

    
    
  
  
  
  

?️ This event is central to Maratha pride and Kolhapur’s historical narrative.

? 4. 1674: Shivaji's Coronation and Expansion

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  Shivaji was crowned Chhatrapati at Raigad in 1674.

  
  


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  Kolhapur region continued to serve as an important military and administrative base in the southern Maratha territories.

  
  


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  Forts in the Kolhapur belt were key in maintaining control over the western Deccan and Konkan region.

  
  

? 5. 1680s–1700: Mughal-Maratha Wars

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  After Shivaji's death in 1680, his son Sambhaji continued fighting the Mughal Empire, which was expanding southward under Aurangzeb.

  
  


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  The Kolhapur region saw frequent battles, skirmishes, and changing control between Marathas and Mughals.

  
  


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  Panhala and surrounding forts changed hands multiple times during this period.

  
  

? Summary: Kolhapur in the 17th Century