20th century

During the 20th century, Kolhapur underwent major political, social, educational, and cultural transformation. It rose to national prominence under visionary leadership, especially Chhatrapati Rajarshi Shahu Maharaj, and played a crucial role in shaping modern Maharashtra. By the end of the century, Kolhapur had transitioned from a princely state to a fully integrated district in independent India.

?️ Kolhapur in the 20th Century: Key Developments by Theme

1. ? Rule of Rajarshi Shahu Maharaj (1894–1922)

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  Rajarshi Shahu, a progressive ruler, ruled Kolhapur during the early 20th century.

  
  


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  He implemented radical social reforms to uplift the lower castes, women, and backward communities.

  
  

? Key Reforms by Shahu Maharaj:

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  Introduced free and compulsory education for all, including girls and Dalits.

  
  


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  Established hostels and scholarships for non-Brahmin and backward students.

  
  


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  Reserved jobs and educational seats for marginalized castes (one of the first in India to implement reservations).

  
  


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  Supported Dr. B. R. Ambedkar, helping fund his education in the 1910s.

  
  


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  Promoted inter-caste dining, temple entry, and anti-untouchability campaigns.

  
  

? He is known as the father of social justice in Maharashtra.

2. ?️ Integration into Independent India (1947–1949)

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  After India’s independence in 1947, Kolhapur was among the princely states that signed the Instrument of Accession to join the Indian Union.

  
  


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  In 1949, Kolhapur State merged into Bombay State.

  
  


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  In 1960, after linguistic reorganization, it became part of Maharashtra.

  
  

3. ? Education and Institutions

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  Many schools, colleges, and libraries were founded in Kolhapur during the 20th century.

  
  


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  Institutions like:

  
  
  
  
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    Shivaji University (est. 1962) became major centers of higher learning.

    
    
  
  
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    Rajaram College and Khasbag Wrestling Stadium gained national recognition.

    
    
  
  
  
  

4. ? Religious and Cultural Identity

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  The Mahalakshmi Temple continued to thrive and became one of the top pilgrimage sites in Maharashtra.

  
  


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  The Ambabai Yatra (annual procession) drew lakhs of devotees.

  
  


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  Local rulers and citizens helped restore old temples and encouraged cultural heritage.

  
  

5. ? Wrestling & Sports Culture

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  Kolhapur became known as the "Kushti capital of Maharashtra".

  
  


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  The Khasbag Maidan, one of India’s largest wrestling arenas, hosted many national-level events.

  
  


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  Produced famous wrestlers and sports personalities.

  
  

6. ? Kolhapur Film Industry (1930s–1960s)

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  Kolhapur was an early hub for Marathi cinema.

  
  


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  Film pioneers like Baburao Painter and V. Shantaram started film studios in Kolhapur.

  
  


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  Many clic silent and early talkie films were shot here, earning Kolhapur the title “Hollywood of Marathi cinema.”

  
  

7. ?️ Economy and Industry

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  Agriculture (especially sugarcane) remained the backbone.

  
  


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  Growth of sugar factories, textile mills, foundries, and engineering industries (especially casting and automobile parts).

  
  


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  Kolhapuri chappals, jaggery, and turmeric became globally recognized.

  
  

8. ? Contribution to Social Justice and Reform

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  Influence of Shahu Maharaj, Dr. Ambedkar, and Satyashodhak Samaj activists was strong throughout the century.

  
  


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  Kolhapur became a center of Dalit activism, progressive movements, and cooperative institutions.