10th century

In the 10th century CE, Kolhapur witnessed continued religious development and a political transition as the Rashtrakutas declined and new dynasties began to rise. It remained a regional religious center, especially known for the Mahalakshmi Temple, and started seeing shifts in power and culture.

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?️ Kolhapur in the 10th Century CE

1. ⚔️ Decline of Rashtrakutas

The Rashtrakuta dynasty began to weaken by the late 10th century, especially after 973 CE.

Their vals and local chiefs began erting independence.

Kolhapur, once under firm Rashtrakuta control, saw a gradual power vacuum forming.

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2. ? Rise of the Shilaharas of Kolhapur

By the late 10th century, a local dynasty called the Shilahara dynasty (branch of the Konkan Shilaharas) established control over Kolhapur.

They made Kolhapur their capital and ruled parts of southern Maharashtra from the 10th to 13th centuries.

The Shilaharas were Hindu rulers, who patronized temples and local culture.

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3. ? Flourishing of Mahalakshmi Temple

The Mahalakshmi Temple of Kolhapur became even more prominent under the Shilaharas.

The temple likely saw expansion and stone reconstruction during this time.

Kolhapur emerged as a major pilgrimage site in western India.

The worship of Goddess Mahalakshmi (Ambabai) grew in religious importance.

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4. ? Art, Architecture, and Culture

Kolhapur developed regional temple architecture, combining Dravidian and Nagara styles.

Stone temples, pillars, and intricate carvings became prominent.

Religious inscriptions and temple donations increased.

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5. ? Languages and Inscriptions

Inscriptions from this period used:

Sanskrit (religious and royal inscriptions)

Kannada (due to Rashtrakuta influence)

Early Marathi (increasingly seen in regional records)

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6. ? Society and Economy

Kolhapur's economy thrived on:

Agriculture (thanks to fertile land and Panchganga river)

Artisanal crafts, especially metal and stone work

Pilgrimage economy, centered around the Mahalakshmi temple

Trade routes remained active with connections to Goa and coastal areas.

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? Summary Table: Kolhapur in the 10th Century

Aspect Description

Dynasty Rashtrakuta decline; rise of Shilahara dynasty of Kolhapur

Capital Status Kolhapur became the capital of Shilaharas

Religion Mahalakshmi worship flourished; strong Hindu influence

Temples Mahalakshmi temple likely expanded with stone architecture

Languages Sanskrit, Kannada, early Marathi

Economy Agriculture, trade, temple-based economy

Culture Growth of regional temple art and inscriptions