2nd century

During the 2nd century CE (100–200 AD), Kolhapur (in present-day Maharashtra, India) was not a major urban center as we know it today, but it was part of important historical developments in the Deccan region. Here’s what is known or inferred about the Kolhapur area during that time:

?️ 1. Rule of the Satavahana Dynasty

• Kolhapur was under the influence or direct rule of the Satavahanas, a powerful dynasty that ruled much of the Deccan Plateau from ~1st century BCE to 3rd century CE.


• Their capitals included Pratishthana (Paithan) and Amaravati, but they controlled large regions including modern-day Kolhapur.

? 2. Spread of Buddhism and Brahmanism

• The Satavahanas supported Brahmanical rituals as well as Buddhism.


• Cave temples and stupas were built across Maharashtra during this time (e.g., Karla, Bhaja, and Nasik caves), suggesting cultural and religious activity also extended into nearby regions like Kolhapur.


• Kolhapur was likely influenced by these religious movements, though no major 2nd-century monuments survive in the city itself.

?️ 3. Trade and Economy

• Kolhapur lay on trade routes connecting the coastal Konkan and the inland Deccan.


• It may have been a stop or minor center for internal trade, especially of textiles, spices, and minerals.


• The Satavahanas were active in Indo-Roman trade, and goods likely moved through or near Kolhapur.

⚔️ 4. Local Chieftains and Feudatories

• Local rulers (feudatories) under Satavahana authority may have administered smaller regions like Kolhapur.


• Inscriptions from nearby areas mention Mahabhojas and Maharathis, who could have had local control over parts of the Kolhapur region.

? 5. Archaeological Remains (Near Kolhapur)

• No major 2nd-century inscriptions or buildings survive directly in modern Kolhapur city, but nearby Karad, Panhala, and Miraj have shown ancient cultural layers.


• Panhala, near Kolhapur, was a significant fort area even in ancient times and may have had early settlements.