8th century

During the 8th century CE, Kolhapur was part of a dynamic and changing landscape in the Deccan. The century marked a transition in power, growth in temple building, and the increasing prominence of Kolhapur as a spiritual and cultural center.

? Key Events and Developments in Kolhapur – 8th Century

? 1. Decline of Chalukyas of Badami

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  The Chalukyas of Badami, who had controlled much of the Deccan (including Kolhapur), began to decline by the mid-8th century.

  
  


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  They were eventually overthrown by the Rashtrakutas, another powerful Deccan dynasty.

  
  

? 2. Rise of the Rashtrakuta Dynasty

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  In c. 753 CE, Dantidurga, the founder of the Rashtrakuta dynasty, defeated the Chalukyas and established control over Kolhapur and nearby regions.

  
  


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  Kolhapur became part of the core territory of the Rashtrakutas, who ruled from Manyakheta (modern-day Malkhed, Karnataka).

  
  

? 3. Religious Importance and Mahalakshmi Worship

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  The worship of Goddess Mahalakshmi in Kolhapur became more organized during this period.

  
  


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  Though the current Mahalakshmi Temple structure is mostly from the 11th century, the site was likely sacred by the 8th century.

  
  


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  Rashtrakutas were patrons of Hinduism, Jainism, and Buddhism, which likely influenced temple building and religious patronage in Kolhapur.

  
  

? 4. Temple Architecture and Cultural Growth

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  The Rashtrakutas were great temple builders. Although their most famous monuments (like the Kailasa Temple at Ellora) are elsewhere, the Kolhapur region likely saw the development of shrines and early temples during this time.

  
  


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  Dravidian and early Deccan architectural styles spread into Kolhapur.

  
  

? 5. Trade, Economy, and Administration

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  Kolhapur continued to benefit from its location on key inland trade routes connecting the coast and interior Deccan.

  
  


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  The city likely functioned as an administrative center under Rashtrakuta rule, possibly with local governors.

  
  


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  Agriculture, metalwork, and textile production flourished.

  
  

? 6. Language, Inscriptions, and Literature

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  The use of Sanskrit and early Kannada grew in inscriptions and official records.

  
  


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  Copper plate grants and temple donations in the wider region provide evidence of royal patronage.

  
  


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  Kolhapur may have had local rulers or feudatories under the Rashtrakutas.

  
  

? Summary: What Happened in Kolhapur in the 8th Century?