20th century

Here is a detailed overview of the major events and developments that occurred in Kolhapur city during the 20th century (1900–1999):

? 1. Kolhapur as a Princely State under British India (Until 1947)

• Kolhapur remained a Maratha princely state ruled by the Bhosale royal family, under British suzerainty.


• The state had its own ruler, administrative structure, police, and army.


• It was one of the larger princely states in the Bombay Presidency.

?‍⚖️ Notable Ruler:

• Shahu Maharaj (Shahu IV) (r. 1894–1922) — one of the most progressive rulers in Indian history.




• Introduced free and compulsory primary education


• Worked for the upliftment of lower castes and promoted reservation policies for backward cles


• Supported women’s education, inter-caste marriage, and social reform movements

? 2. Social Reform and Education

• Shahu Maharaj founded schools for Dalits, girls, and rural communities.


• Supported Dr. B.R. Ambedkar in his early career and reform efforts.


• Set up industrial and vocational training institutions.


• Institutions like Rajaram College became major centers of education.

?️ 3. Freedom Movement and Political Change

• Kolhapur saw active participation in the Indian Independence Movement.


• Many people from Kolhapur joined the non-cooperation, civil disobedience, and Quit India Movements.


• Local leaders, students, and reformists contributed to nationalist causes.

?️ 4. Post-Independence Integration (1947–1949)

• After India gained independence in 1947, Kolhapur was merged into the Bombay State in 1949.


• The monarchy was officially abolished.


• In 1960, with the formation of Maharashtra State, Kolhapur became a district and municipal city in the new state.

?️ 5. Urban and Industrial Development (Mid-1900s Onward)

• Kolhapur saw major development in:




• Infrastructure: roads, railway, bridges, public buildings


• Industry: sugar mills, engineering workshops, textile production


• Education: expansion of colleges, schools, and vocational institutes


• Healthcare: establishment of hospitals and medical colleges (e.g., CPR Hospital)






• Mahalakshmi Temple became a major tourist and religious attraction, drawing lakhs of pilgrims every year.

? 6. Culture, Art, and Sports

• Kolhapur became a hub for Marathi theater, clical music, and film production.


• Early Marathi cinema was developed in Kolhapur by Baburao Painter, who started one of the first film studios in India.


• Known for Kolhapuri chappals, wrestling (kushti), and traditional festivals.


• Hosted local and national wrestling championships.