10th century

During the 10th century CE, Kolhapur was an important region in western India, with political, religious, and cultural developments. Here are the main historical events and features of Kolhapur in that era:

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?️ 1. Rule of the Shilaharas (Silaharas of Kolhapur)

The Shilahara dynasty ruled Kolhapur and surrounding areas from the 8th to 13th century CE.

In the 10th century, Kolhapur was under the Second Branch of Shilaharas, who were vals of the Rashtrakutas initially, and later the Chalukyas of Kalyani.

King Gonka I (circa late 9th – early 10th century) and his successors like Bhatarai, Vadi, and Guhala I expanded and governed the region effectively.

Their capital was often based around Karvir (ancient name for Kolhapur).

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? 2. Development of Temples and Religious Centers

The Shilaharas were patrons of Shaivism (worship of Lord Shiva) and Shaktism (worship of the goddess).

Early forms of the Mahalakshmi Temple in Kolhapur were likely patronized during this time. Though its present structure is mostly from the later period, the idol of Goddess Mahalakshmi (Ambabai) is believed to be from 8th to 10th century.

Jainism and Buddhism also had influence, with Jain temples and caves still found in nearby regions.

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⚔️ 3. Political Conflicts

The 10th century was marked by conflicts between Rashtrakutas and Chalukyas, and Kolhapur was often a strategic region in these wars.

After the decline of the Rashtrakutas around 973 CE, the Western Chalukyas (Chalukyas of Kalyani) rose to power and took control of Kolhapur.

The Shilaharas remained as feudatories, shifting their allegiance to the Chalukyas.

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? 4. Inscriptions and Land Grants

Several stone inscriptions and copper plates from the 10th century have been found in the Kolhapur region.

These records mention land grants to Brahmins, temples, and religious institutions, showing the prosperity and administrative structure of the time.

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?️ 5. Society and Culture

The society was agrarian, with farmers, artisans, and temple workers playing key roles.

Kolhapur was located on trade routes, and the city likely had markets and trade in textiles, metal goods, and food grains.

Art and sculpture flourished under royal patronage, especially in temple architecture.

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