12th

In the 12th century CE, Kolhapur remained an important political, religious, and cultural center under the rule of the Shilahara dynasty. This period saw further development of the city's architecture, especially temples, and growth in religious significance.

? Kolhapur in the 12th Century CE: Key Events & Developments

1. ? Continued Rule of the Shilaharas of Kolhapur

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  The Shilaharas were still in power in the Kolhapur region during the early to mid-12th century.

  
  


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  Though they were vals of the Western Chalukyas, they held considerable local power.

  
  


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  King Bhoja II and King Guhala II were among the notable rulers.

  
  

?️ By the late 12th century, the Shilaharas' power weakened due to rising challenges from the Yadavas of Devagiri (later known as the Seuna Yadava dynasty).

2. ? Further Development of Mahalakshmi Temple

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  The Mahalakshmi Temple continued to grow in size and religious importance.

  
  


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  Additional shrines, mandapas (pillared halls), and stone sculptures were added during this period.

  
  


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  The temple drew pilgrims from across the Deccan, enhancing Kolhapur’s religious status.

  
  

3. ? Religious Diversity

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  Shaivism and Shaktism remained dominant.

  
  


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  Jainism flourished, especially among the merchant cl, who sponsored Jain temples and inscriptions.

  
  


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  Temple art and sculpture reached a high level of sophistication.

  
  

4. ?️ Architecture and Art

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  Black basalt stone temples in the Hemadpanthi style started to appear, especially toward the end of the 12th century.

  
  


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  The architecture featured lotus motifs, mythological carvings, and mandapas with stone pillars.

  
  


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  Many smaller temples in Kolhapur district today date from this era.

  
  

5. ? Language and Literature

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  Sanskrit remained the official language for inscriptions and religious texts.

  
  


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  Kannada was used in administration (due to Chalukya legacy), and Old Marathi began to appear more often in public life.

  
  


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  Temple inscriptions detailed land grants, religious rituals, and donor records.

  
  

6. ?️ Economy and Urban Life

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  Kolhapur was a thriving trade and temple town.

  
  


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  Weaving, metalwork, and agriculture (especially rice and sugarcane) supported the economy.

  
  


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  Pilgrimage tourism brought artisans, merchants, and scholars to the city.