18th century
Description
In the 18th century CE, Kolhapur emerged as a fully independent Maratha kingdom, separate from the main Maratha seat at Satara. This century was marked by internal dynastic struggles, wars with the British and other Maratha factions, and the gradual formalization of Kolhapur as a princely state. Despite political conflict, temple patronage, administrative developments, and cultural activity continued to thrive.
✅ Major Events in Kolhapur During the 18th Century:
? 1. Establishment of the Kolhapur Maratha Kingdom
After the death of Chhatrapati Rajaram (Shivaji’s younger son) in 1700, his widow Tarabai acted as regent.
Conflict arose between Tarabai and Shahu Maharaj (Rajaram’s nephew, released by the Mughals), leading to a split in the Maratha Empire.
This resulted in two parallel Maratha thrones:
Satara (Shahu Maharaj)
Kolhapur (under Tarabai’s line)
⚔️ 2. Dynastic Conflicts and Power Struggles
Throughout the 18th century, Kolhapur experienced civil wars and succession disputes within the Bhonsle family.
Rajas of Kolhapur often clashed with:
Rival Maratha factions in Satara and Pune
The Peshwas, who became the dominant political power in Maharashtra
Some Kolhapur rulers even sought support from the British against their Maratha rivals.
? 3. Rulers of Kolhapur (Key Names):
| Name | Reign | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Sambhaji I | 1714–1760 | First officially recognized ruler of Kolhapur |
| Shivaji II | 1762–1813 | Ruled during a time of British expansion |
| Intermittent Regents | 18th century | Due to succession issues and underage rulers, regents and nobles often held real power |
?️ 4. Military Conflicts
Kolhapur engaged in conflicts with:
The Peshwas of Pune (especially Bajirao and successors)
Hyderabad Nizam
British East India Company (toward the late 1700s)
Kolhapur retained its autonomy but had to negotiate treaties to secure peace.
? 5. Religious and Cultural Patronage
The Mahalakshmi Temple continued as a major religious center.
Kolhapur rulers funded:
Temple renovations
Festivals and religious institutions
Art, music, and Sanskrit learning received support from the court.
? 6. Administration and Economy
Kolhapur developed its own bureaucracy and revenue system.
Taxes were collected from farmers, artisans, and traders.
The economy depended on:
Agriculture (sugarcane, rice, grains)
Metalworking and textiles
Pilgrimage-based trade
? 7. British Contact (Late 1700s)
Toward the end of the century, Kolhapur began to interact more with the British East India Company.
Tensions and treaties set the stage for indirect colonial influence in the 19th century.
✅ Summary – What Happened in Kolhapur During the 18th Century:
| Theme | Key Highlights |
|---|---|
| ? Politics | Became an independent Maratha state under the Bhonsles |
| ⚔️ Conflicts | Fought with Peshwas, Satara, and British; internal succession wars |
| ? Religion | Mahalakshmi Temple flourished; royal support for Hindu tradition |
| ? Economy | Agriculture, metalwork, and pilgrimage economy supported the region |
| ? Culture & Admin | Use of Marathi and Modi script in governance; temple and court culture grew |
| ? Colonial Contact | Initial treaties and conflicts with the British East India Company |
More details
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