21st century

In the 21st century, Kolhapur (in present-day Maharashtra, India) has evolved into a vibrant urban center blending traditional heritage with modern growth. It is known for its industries, education, temples, and political influence in Maharashtra. The city has continued to build on its rich Maratha legacy while addressing 21st-century challenges like urbanization, floods, and climate resilience.

1. Political Situation

• Democratic Governance:




• Kolhapur is part of Maharashtra’s state legislative embly and Lok Sabha.


• Known for strong political leadership—MLAs and MPs from Kolhapur often hold influential roles in state politics.




• Decentralization:




• The Kolhapur Municipal Corporation (KMC) has expanded in size and services.


• Zilla Parishads and Panchayat Samitis became key drivers of rural development.

2. Trade and Economy

• Industrial Growth:




• Kolhapur is a hub for foundries, casting, engineering, and precision components.


• Supplies parts to automobile and agricultural sectors nationally and internationally.




• Agriculture and Cooperatives:




• Sugarcane dominates, supported by sugar factories and cooperative banks.


• Dairy, poultry, and horticulture (especially grapes and turmeric) are thriving sectors.




• Tourism and Commerce:




• Kolhapur’s temples, historical forts, and textile markets boost local tourism.


• Famous for Kolhapuri chappals, jaggery, and jewelry exports.

3. Urban and Agriculture

• Urban Expansion:




• Major roadways, bridges, and Ring Road project aimed at reducing congestion.


• Growth of residential zones: Rajarampuri, Udyamnagar, Sykes Extension, and new townships.




• Smart City Mission:




• Kolhapur selected under India’s Smart Cities project:




• CCTV networks,


• E-governance systems,


• Smart waste and water management.






• Agricultural Challenges:




• Monsoon irregularities and Panchganga river flooding (notably in 2019 and 2021) disrupted villages.


• Farmers shifted towards drip irrigation, polyhouse farming, and crop diversification.

4. Language and Inscriptions

• Marathi remains dominant in:




• Schools, newspapers, television, and local governance.




• English widely used in:




• Higher education, IT services, courts, and private businesses.




• Multilingual cultural expressions are common due to migration and tourism.

5. Religion and Culture

• Mahalakshmi Temple:




• Continues as a national pilgrimage center, attracting lakhs of visitors yearly.


• Upgraded with digital queue systems and infrastructure for devotees.




• Festivals and Arts:




• Navratri Mahotsav, Ganesh Utsav, Lavani festivals, and Kolhapur International Film Festival are major events.




• Cinema and Literature:




• Kolhapur remains a regional cinema powerhouse, with studios and artists active in Marathi film and TV.


• Respected for its contribution to theatre, poetry, and music education.

6. Education

• Shivaji University:




• A leading academic institution offering research, technology, and arts education.




• Rise of Private Colleges:




• Engineering, medical, commerce, and law colleges attract students from across southern Maharashtra and Karnataka.




• Skill Development:




• ITIs, polytechnics, and digital training centers promote job-ready skills among youth.




• Inclusive Education:




• Government initiatives continue Shahu Maharaj's legacy through scholarships and hostel schemes for marginalized groups.

7. Health

• Healthcare Expansion:




• New multi-specialty hospitals, medical colleges, and private clinics emerged.


• Services expanded in rural health centers and primary care.




• Public Health:




• Kolhapur played a major role in COVID-19 vaccination drives, testing, and isolation centers.


• Awareness campaigns on sanitation, maternal care, and vector diseases grew stronger.




• Ayurveda and Homeopathy:




• Several institutes promote traditional systems of medicine, integrating with modern care.

8. Digital Development

• Smart Infrastructure:




• Introduction of smart cameras, e-toilets, real-time bus tracking, and online grievance redressal systems.




• Internet & E-Governance:




• Free Wi-Fi zones in public spaces; increased digitization of land and property records.




• Startups & IT Services:




• Youth-led IT firms and digital marketing agencies emerging in Udyamnagar and nearby zones.


• Digital payment culture has grown rapidly across urban and semi-urban areas.