19th century

Here’s a detailed account of the major events and developments in Kolhapur city during the 19th century (1800–1899 CE) — a time of transformation under princely rule, colonial pressure, and social reform:

? 1. Kolhapur as a Princely State under British India

• Kolhapur was one of the largest Maratha princely states, ruled by the Bhosale royal family (descendants of Shivaji).


• It remained semi-autonomous, but under the suzerainty of the British East India Company after the Anglo-Maratha Wars (especially after 1818).


• The Treaty of 1820 confirmed Kolhapur’s status as a British protectorate.


• The British Political Agent was stationed in Kolhapur to oversee administration.

⚖️ 2.Administrative Reforms

• British and Kolhapur state cooperated on:




• Law and order


• Revenue collection


• Municipal governance






• Introduction of modern schooling, postal services, and road construction began, especially in the second half of the century.

? 3. Education and Social Reform

• Late 1800s: Shahu Maharaj, who came to power in 1894, initiated progressive policies:




• Promoted education for all castes, especially non-Brahmins


• Started schools for girls, backward castes, and Muslims


• Advocated for reservation in government jobs (among the earliest in India)

? 4. Religion and Culture

• The Mahalakshmi Temple remained the spiritual center of the city.


• Hindu festivals and temple culture were still strong, though reformers began challenging caste-based temple restrictions.


• Wrestling (kushti) and folk theatre (tamasha) flourished.


• Kolhapur was also a center for clical music and Marathi literature.

?️ 5. Urban Growth and Economy

• Kolhapur grew as a well-planned princely capital with:




• Royal palaces (Old Palace, New Palace construction began)


• Markets, schools, and public buildings






• The economy was driven by:




• Agriculture


• Textiles


• Metalwork and crafts, including the famous Kolhapuri chappals (leather sandals)






• Early forms of public health and sanitation were introduced by the late 1800s.

?️ 6. British Presence and Influence

• The British supervised the succession of rulers, internal reforms, and law enforcement.


• Missionary schools and Western-style education entered Kolhapur.


• A railway link was planned but completed in the early 20th century.