1st century

In the 1st century CE, Kolhapur (located in present-day Maharashtra, India) was part of the wider Satavahana Empire, a powerful dynasty in the Deccan region. While detailed records of Kolhapur city itself are limited for this specific period, we can understand the region’s general historical context based on archaeological and literary evidence.

Key Events and Characteristics in Kolhapur Region (1st Century CE):

1. Rule of the Satavahanas

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  The Satavahanas ruled large parts of central and southern India, including Kolhapur.

  
  


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  Kings like Gautamiputra Satakarni (ruled late 1st century to early 2nd century CE) strengthened the empire and controlled western Maharashtra.

  
  

2. Brahmanical and Buddhist Influence

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  Early Brahmanical religious practices were common.

  
  


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  Buddhism also had a strong presence in the Deccan. Nearby regions had rock-cut caves, monasteries, and stupas (e.g., Karla and Bhaja), showing religious and cultural activities possibly affecting Kolhapur too.

  
  

3. Trade and Commerce

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  The region was part of trade routes connecting inland Deccan to western coastal ports like Sopara and Kalyan.

  
  


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  Goods like spices, textiles, and precious stones moved through this area, possibly involving Kolhapur in regional trade.

  
  

4. Early Settlements and Agriculture

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  The region had agricultural villages and proto-urban settlements.

  
  


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  Use of iron tools and advanced farming techniques improved productivity.

  
  

5. Language and Inscriptions

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  Prakrit was widely spoken.

  
  


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  Early inscriptions found in nearby areas are in Brahmi script, used by the Satavahanas for official and religious declarations.