17th century

In the 17th century CE, Kolhapur entered a transformative era, becoming a key part of the rise of the Maratha Empire under Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj. This century marked the decline of the Adil Shahi Sultanate in the region and the emergence of Kolhapur as a significant political, military, and religious center in Maratha history.

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?️ Kolhapur in the 17th Century CE

1. ? Rise of the Maratha Empire

Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj (born 1630) began consolidating Maratha power in the western Deccan.

Kolhapur, which was earlier under the Adil Shahi Sultanate of Bijapur, came under Maratha control during Shivaji’s expansion in the mid-17th century.

The region around Kolhapur played a key role in military campaigns and administrative organization.

Shivaji's campaigns in south Maharashtra weakened Bijapur’s influence permanently.

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2. ? Establishment of the Kolhapur Princely State

After Shivaji's death (1680), a succession dispute between his sons (Sambhaji and Rajaram) eventually led to the formation of two Maratha centers:

Satara, under Shahu (Shivaji’s grandson)

Kolhapur, under Rajaram’s wife Tarabai and their son Shivaji II

By the end of the 17th century, Kolhapur became the capital of a separate Maratha kingdom—a branch of the Bhonsle dynasty.

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3. ? Mahalakshmi Temple – Symbol of Maratha Identity

The Mahalakshmi Temple of Kolhapur became a powerful religious symbol for the Marathas.

It was actively supported by:

Shivaji Maharaj, who was a devout Hindu

Rajaram and Tarabai, who ruled from Kolhapur

The temple was not only a spiritual center but also a rallying point for Maratha cultural pride.

Rituals, festivals, and temple economy reached new heights.

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4. ⚔️ Conflicts and Mughals

The Mughal Empire under Aurangzeb launched a mive campaign against the Marathas in the Deccan.

Kolhapur region saw battles, guerrilla warfare, and resistance from Maratha leaders.

Despite Mughal invasions, the Marathas maintained control, using forts and hilly terrain to their advantage.

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5. ? Culture, Language, and Bhakti Tradition

Marathi flourished as the language of administration, poetry, and warfare.

Saints like Samarth Ramdas (Shivaji’s spiritual advisor) spread devotional and patriotic ideas.

Bhakti movement ideals were widely practiced, with temples playing a central cultural role.

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6. ? Economy and Social Life

Kolhapur’s economy was powered by:

Agriculture in fertile river valleys

Temple-centered commerce

Military activities and revenue from forts

Craftsmen, blacksmiths, and weavers thrived under Maratha support.

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? Summary Table: Kolhapur in the 17th Century

Aspect Description

Ruling Power Early: Adil Shahi; Mid-Late: Marathas under Shivaji → Kolhapur Bhonsles

Major Event Formation of Kolhapur Maratha State by Tarabai and Shivaji II

Temple Activity Mahalakshmi Temple flourished, supported by Maratha rulers

Religion Strong Hindu revival, Shaktism, Bhakti movement

Language Marathi dominant; Sanskrit for religion

Culture Bhakti poetry, war songs, local festivals, saint influence

Economy Agriculture, fort economy, crafts, and temple income

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? Key Personalities:

Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj – unified the Marathas

Tarabai – courageous queen and regent of Kolhapur

Chhatrapati Shivaji II – ruler of the newly formed Kolhapur state

Samarth Ramdas – spiritual leader and cultural reformer