1st century

In the 1st century CE, Kolhapur (in present-day Maharashtra, India) was part of the broader Deccan region and likely under the influence of the early Satavahana dynasty. While direct records from Kolhapur itself during this period are limited, we can understand its history by looking at the broader context:

1. Rule of Satavahana

• Kolhapur was likely under the control of the Satavahana dynasty, a powerful Deccan-based kingdom that emerged after the Mauryan Empire.


• Prominent rulers during this era include Gautamiputra Satakarni, who expanded Satavahana influence.


• The dynasty maintained regional stability, supported agriculture and trade, and acted as a cultural bridge between northern and southern India.

2. Religious Activity

• The region witnessed a pluralistic religious landscape.


• Buddhism flourished under Satavahana patronage, with donations to viharas (monasteries) and stupas evident in nearby areas like Karla and Bhaja caves.


• Simultaneously, Brahmanical (Hindu) traditions, especially Shaivism, began to grow in prominence, with rituals, Vedic sacrifices, and worship of deities like Shiva and Vishnu.


• The Satavahanas themselves followed Brahmanism, and royal inscriptions often mention yajnas and Brahmanical grants, indicating the start of institutionalized Hindu temple culture.

3. Trade and Commerce

• Kolhapur was situated along important inland trade routes connecting the Konkan ports with interior cities.


• The area benefited from Indo-Roman trade, with Roman coins found in western Maharashtra as evidence.


• Local industries included weaving, pottery, metalwork, and bead-making, all contributing to economic activity.


• Markets likely existed in emerging towns or settlements that connected rural producers with long-distance traders.

4. Early Settlement and Agriculture

• Archaeological sites like Brahmapuri (near Kolhapur) indicate early settlements with evidence of continuous habitation.


• Simple houses were built with mud bricks or wood, and communities were organized around agriculture and water sources.


• Crops such as rice, lentils, millets, and wheat were cultivated, aided by basic irrigation techniques.


• Animal husbandry (cattle, goats, poultry) also supported daily life.

5. Language and Inscriptions

• The Prakrit language, written in the Brahmi script, was commonly used for official and religious inscriptions.


• Satavahana kings issued stone and copperplate inscriptions, especially for land grants and religious endowments.


• Though few inscriptions are directly from Kolhapur, nearby regions show frequent mention of local rulers, donors, and religious sites, giving insight into governance and culture.