18th century

In the 18th century CE, Kolhapur developed into a fully established princely state under a branch of the Maratha Bhonsle dynasty, separate from the main Maratha rule in Satara. This century saw internal power struggles, the influence of the British and the Peshwas, but also a flourishing of local culture, administration, and temple traditions.

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?️ Kolhapur in the 18th Century CE

1. ? Kolhapur State – Bhonsle Dynasty Rule

Kolhapur became a sovereign Maratha kingdom, ruled by the descendants of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, especially through Shivaji II (Tarabai’s son).

The state functioned independently of the Satara Chhatrapatis and the Peshwa's central authority, although political tensions were frequent.

Rulers like:

Sambhaji II (ruled 1714–1760)

Shahu of Kolhapur and others maintained a Maratha monarchy, headquartered in Kolhapur city.

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2. ⚔️ Conflicts and Alliances

Internal battles occurred between:

Kolhapur Bhonsles and Peshwas of Pune

Kolhapur and Satara factions

The British East India Company began interfering in Maratha politics.

Kolhapur maintained diplomatic independence but was eventually drawn into British-Maratha treaties toward the late 18th century.

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3. ? Mahalakshmi Temple – Royal Patronage

The Mahalakshmi Temple remained the spiritual heart of Kolhapur.

Rulers of Kolhapur personally sponsored temple festivals, land grants, and renovations.

The temple was a source of religious unity and royal legitimacy.

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4. ? Culture and Language

Marathi was the language of court, education, and administration.

Cultural practices included:

Clical music, kirtans, and storytelling (powadas)

Support for artisans, dancers, musicians, and temple traditions

The Bhakti movement legacy continued, with strong devotion to Mahalakshmi and Lord Vitthal.

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5. ? Economy and Society

Kolhapur had a feudal agrarian economy, controlled by Deshmukhs and Watandars.

Revenue came from:

Land tax

Temple offerings

Trade in textiles, metalwork, sugar, and jaggery

The city grew as an administrative and cultural hub, with forts, palaces, and public works developed by the Kolhapur royals.

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? Summary Table: Kolhapur in the 18th Century

Aspect Description

Ruling Power Kolhapur Bhonsle Dynasty (Sambhaji II and successors)

Capital Status Kolhapur was the capital of an independent Maratha state

Temple Activity Mahalakshmi Temple flourished under royal patronage

Religion Strong Shaktism and Bhakti traditions

Languages Marathi (official and cultural); Sanskrit (rituals)

Culture Music, dance, festivals, Marathi literature, temple arts

Conflicts Political rivalry with Peshwas and Satara; British influence begins

Economy Land tax, temple donations, agriculture, crafts, trade

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?‍? Important Personalities:

Sambhaji II – A powerful king who consolidated Kolhapur’s identity

Tarabai (legacy) – Her political foundation helped shape Kolhapur's independence

British envoys and Peshwa diplomats – Played a growing role in later affairs