20th-Century

The 20th century was one of the most important and transformative periods in the history of Kolhapur. It saw the city’s evolution from a princely state under British control to becoming a modern Indian city after Independence. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the major developments in Kolhapur during the 1900s:

? 1. Reforms by Rajarshi Shahu Maharaj (1894–1922)

• One of the greatest rulers of Kolhapur, Chhatrapati Shahu Maharaj led a bold era of social reform and modern governance.


• Key achievements:




• Free and compulsory education for all, especially lower castes.


• Reservation in government jobs for backward cles — one of the earliest examples in India.


• Support for women’s education and widow remarriage.


• Established hostels, schools, and scholarships for non-Brahmins, Dalits, and Muslims.


• Supported Ambedkar, Jyotiba Phule’s movement, and the Satya Shodhak Samaj.

? 2. Education, Culture, and Industry Flourished

• Kolhapur became a progressive cultural center in Maharashtra:




• Educational institutions like Rajaram College were set up.


• Growth in Marathi theatre, clical music, and wrestling (kushti).


• Known as a center of arts and cinema — Kolhapur Film City has roots in this period.

? 3. Birth of the Marathi Film Industry

• Kolhapur is considered one of the cradles of Indian cinema:




• Baburao Painter and V. Shantaram, pioneers of Indian filmmaking, began their work here in the 1910s–1930s.


• The Maharaja of Kolhapur supported filmmaking, helping establish studios.

?? 4. Freedom Movement and Integration into India

• Although a princely state, Kolhapur supported the Indian independence movement:




• Local participation in Gandhi’s movements and non-cooperation campaigns.


• After Independence in 1947, Kolhapur acceded to the Indian Union in 1949.


• The princely state was dissolved, and Kolhapur became part of Bombay State, and later Maharashtra (1960).

?️ 5. Urbanization and Infrastructure Development

• After 1947:




• Development of roads, schools, hospitals, and municipal services.


• Industrial growth in textiles, engineering, and foundries (notably Kolhapur Pattern casting).


• Establishment of Kolhapur Municipal Corporation.


• Udyamnagar and Shiroli MIDC areas were developed for small and medium industries.

? 6. Continued Religious and Cultural Importance

• The Mahalakshmi Temple remained a major pilgrimage site.


• Navratri Festival, Jagadamba Yatra, and Dashahara processions attracted thousands.


• Wrestling akhadas (training grounds) and traditional sports remained popular.

? 7. Legacy of Social Justice

• Inspired by Shahu Maharaj, Kolhapur became a base of Dalit activism and Ambedkarite movements.


• Education and social upliftment remained major themes throughout the century.