12th century

Here’s a comprehensive overview of what happened in Kolhapur city during the 12th century CE (1100–1199 AD) — a time of political change, religious activity, and growing regional importance:

? 1. Shilahara Dynasty’s Continued Rule (Early 12th Century)

• The Shilaharas of Kolhapur continued to rule in the early part of the 12th century.


• They remained feudatories of the Western Chalukyas (Kalyani Chalukyas).


• Important rulers likely included successors of Bhoja I, although individual names become less prominent after 1100 CE.


• Kolhapur remained a semi-autonomous capital under the Shilaharas until their decline.

⚔️ 2. Western Chalukya Influence and Conflict

• The Western Chalukyas (of Kalyani) had increasing control over the Kolhapur region.


• The area saw intermittent conflict between:




• Western Chalukyas


• Hoysalas from the south (Karnataka)


• Rising Yadavas of Devagiri (later dominant in the 13th century)






• Kolhapur may have seen military campaigns or shifts in overlordship as these powers struggled for dominance.

? 3. Religious and Temple Development

• The Mahalakshmi Temple continued to be a major religious center.




• The temple’s stone architecture, mandapas, and carvings likely saw major additions during this period.


• The temple was an important Shakta pilgrimage site.






• Other temples for Shiva, Vishnu, and Ganesha were constructed or maintained.


• Shaivism, Shaktism, and Vaishnavism were actively practiced, and temples received land grants.

? 4. Inscriptions and Culture

• Sanskrit inscriptions on stone and copper plates continued to record:




• Land donations


• Religious grants


• Royal edicts and family histories






• Old Marathi began appearing more often in everyday use and in mixed inscriptions.


• Temples functioned as centers of learning, art, and music, promoting traditional Vedic education.

?️ 5. Economy and Society

• The Kolhapur region remained agriculturally productive, especially around the Panchganga River.


• The temple economy expanded — temples were large landowners and employers.


• Kolhapur may have hosted regional markets and become a hub for weaving, bronze work, and jewelry.


• The society included Brahmins, artisans, traders, and temple workers.