20th century
Description
The 20th century was a transformational era for Kolhapur (in present-day Maharashtra, India). Under the rule of Rajarshi Shahu Maharaj, the city became a center of progressive reforms, education, and social justice. It evolved from a princely state under British suzerainty to becoming a part of the Indian Union after independence in 1947. The century saw the rise of democracy, infrastructure, industry, and social movements that shaped modern Kolhapur.
- Political Situation
- 1900–1922:
- Reign of Rajarshi Shahu Maharaj, a visionary king who:
- Fought caste discrimination,
- Introduced reservations in education and jobs,
- Advocated for non-Brahmin empowerment.
- 1922–1947:
- After Shahu's death, successive rulers were less politically active; British administrators played a growing role.
- Kolhapur had a representative embly and municipal council by the 1930s.
- 1947: India became independent.
- 1949: Kolhapur State was merged into the Indian Union, becoming part of Bombay State.
- 1960: After linguistic reorganization, Kolhapur became part of Maharashtra State.
- Trade and Economy
- Continued growth in sugarcane farming, supported by:
- Cooperative sugar factories,
- Improved irrigation.
- Industrialization:
- Rise of foundry and casting industries (Kolhapur became known for iron and metal work),
- Kolhapuri chappals gained global recognition.
- Commercial and textile markets grew in Shahupuri, Laxmipuri, and Udyamnagar areas.
- By the late century, Kolhapur became an agro-industrial and trade hub in southwest Maharashtra.
- Urban and Agriculture
- Major developments:
- Shahu Market, Jaisingrao Hospital, Rajarshi Shahu High School,
- Water supply from Rankala and Panchganga systems.
- Expansion of neighborhoods and modern infrastructure:
- Rail connectivity enhanced (Miraj–Kolhapur),
- Bus depots, municipal gardens, and government buildings were built.
- Rural areas adopted green revolution techniques, especially in sugarcane, soybean, and horticulture.
- Language and Inscriptions
- Marathi became the official language of administration and education post-1947.
- English remained important in higher education, courts, and industry.
- Rich Marathi journalism, literature, and education flourished—several printing presses were established.
- Public inscriptions and monuments celebrated:
- Shahu Maharaj,
- Freedom fighters,
- Local reformers and saints.
- Religion and Culture
- The Mahalakshmi temple remained the spiritual core and was modernized in parts.
- Continuation of Varkari tradition, Haripath, and Shakta rituals.
- Cultural flowering:
- Growth of Marathi theatre,
- Clical music (Natyasangeet), local cinema,
- Lavani and Tamasha performances.
- Establishment of institutions like:
- Kalavati Devi College of Music,
- New education societies for all castes and genders.
- Social Reform & Education
- Shahu Maharaj introduced:
- Free and compulsory education,
- Scholarships for backward castes and Muslims,
- Hostels for different communities.
- Kolhapur became an early hub of the anti-caste movement, inspiring leaders like Dr. B.R. Ambedkar.
More details
| Name | Description |
|---|---|
| Source Link | . |
Phone number
