Kolhapur

State: Maharashtra 

Main languages: Marathi, Hindi and Gujarati

 

History:

 

The city of Kolhapur is situated in the south west corner of Maharashtra, India. The city is located on the banks of river Panchganga and is the home for the famous Mahalakshmi Temple. The city was named after the demon Kolhasur, who was killed by Mahalakshmi and the city gets its name, as a dying wish for the demon. Due to its veteran trade and commerce enterprises the city also lends its name to many common terms like Kolhapuri Chappal, Kolhapuri gur, Kolhapuri lavangi mirchi, and Kolhapuri cuisine. The rulers of this city have a common ancestry with the Bhonsle dynasties of Tanjore and Satara. The Maharajas also claim their descent from the Maratha royal clan Bhonsl¨¤. Kolhapur came into being in 1707, over succession dispute of the Maratha kingship. Shahu Sambhaji, the heir to the Maratha kingdom had been captured by the Mughals at the age of nine. At the time of his father's death, he remained their prisoner. He was released in the year 1707 and claimed his inheritance. During the British rule in India, expeditions were sent against Kolhapur in 1765 and 1792 after which Kolhapur entered into treaty relations with the British. The last ruler of Kolhapur was HH Maharaja Chhatrapati Shahaji II Puar and in 1947, the Maharaja of Kolhapur acceded to the Dominion of India. 

 

Geography and climate:

 

The city of Kolhapur is located at 16.7¡ã N 74.22¡ã E and has an average elevation of 545 meters. The climate here is a blend of the coastal and inland climate and the temperatures here are relatively narrow range between 12¡ãC to 35¡ãC. The summers here are much cooler compared to the rest of the cities, but much more humid. The maximum temperatures here rarely exceed 38¡ãC. Due to its proximity to the Western Ghats the region gets heavy rainfall resulting in floods.

 

Demographics:

 

As per the 2001 India census, Kolhapur had a population of 485,183 with an average literacy rate of 80%. 

 

Economy:

 

The city has been very famous since the ancient times for its headwear, food, footwear, jewelry, wrestling and religious connections. Kolhapur has one of the highest per-capita incomes in India with trade being the most important contributor to the economy. Agriculture is a vital form of income here with cash crops like sugarcane. Even the metal industry, textiles and mining are popular here. The city also has a thriving film industry.

 

Culture and tourism:

 

The city had been one of the most important princely states of India and has people of various communities living together. The impact of its rich culture can still be seen in the lifestyles of the people here. The Mahalaxmi temple here remains one of the most popular tourist attractions. The wrestling matches and 'Tamasha' or local theatre are enjoyed by tourists along with Rankala, new palace and old palace.

 

 

Transportation:

 

The city has an airport near Ujlaiwadi which is 13 km from the city center. The railways and roads are also well connected to other parts of the country.