15th century

During the 15th century CE, Kolhapur entered a period of relative stability after earlier invasions. It became part of the powerful Bahmani Sultanate, while Hindu religious and cultural life continued to thrive, particularly around the Mahalakshmi Temple. This century also saw the growth of the Bhakti movement, which deeply influenced the region.

? Kolhapur in the 15th Century CE: Key Events & Developments

1. ? Under the Bahmani Sultanate

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  Kolhapur was governed by the Bahmani Sultanate (1347–1527 CE), headquartered at Gulbarga and later Bidar.

  
  


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  The Bahmanis ruled much of the western and central Deccan, including southern Maharashtra.

  
  


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  Kolhapur was part of a provincial administrative unit (Taraf) governed by nobles and regional military leaders.

  
  

2. ⚔️ Internal Conflicts and Regional Power Struggles

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  The 15th century saw infighting within the Bahmani Sultanate, especially between different factions of nobles (Deccanis vs. Afaqis).

  
  


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  These internal tensions affected outlying regions like Kolhapur, which may have occasionally seen local revolts or instability.

  
  

? Religious and Cultural Life

3. ? Mahalakshmi Temple Continues to Thrive

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  Despite being under Islamic rule, the Mahalakshmi Temple in Kolhapur remained active and respected.

  
  


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  Local Hindu landlords (Deshmukhs) and communities likely ensured temple maintenance and worship.

  
  


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  Pilgrims continued to visit Kolhapur as it remained one of the Shakti Peethas (important goddess temples).

  
  

4. ? Bhakti Movement Flourishes

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  The Bhakti movement, with its message of devotion, equality, and local language use, had a powerful impact on Kolhapur.

  
  


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  Saints like:

  
  
  
  
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    Namdev (late 13th to early 14th century) had followers in the region.

    
    
  
  
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    Eknath (born later in the 16th century) was influenced by this growing devotional environment.

    
    
  
  
  
  


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  The Varkari tradition (pilgrims to Pandharpur) spread through Kolhapur.

  
  

? Languages and Literature

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  Old Marathi became stronger as the language of devotion and daily life.

  
  


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  Sanskrit was still used in religious ceremonies and temple inscriptions.

  
  


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  Persian was the official language of administration under the Bahmani rulers.

  
  

?️ Economy and Urban Life

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  Kolhapur’s economy was centered around:

  
  
  
  
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    Agriculture (sugarcane, cotton, rice)

    
    
  
  
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    Textile production and local crafts

    
    
  
  
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    Temple-based economy from pilgrims and donations

    
    
  
  
  
  


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  Trade was partially revived after the earlier disruptions of the 14th century.