Dakshin Kashi, a city known to be located on the banks of the Panchganga River, southern-western zone of the state Maharashtra, surrounded by Sahyadri mountain ranges is famous for being ruled by multiple kings belonging to different backgrounds. Bhonsle was the one amongst the Maratha dynasty who ruled the district since 1730. According to mythology, Kolhapur is a residing place of Laxmi, Ardhangani of Lord Vishnu, who settled here after a fight with her husband. She killed a demon named Kolhasur, whose last wish was to name his place of birth after his name, so the region was named as Kolhapur.
A place is a reflection of its people and time so is the city Kolhapur, reflecting the knowledge and beliefs of the kings that ruled over there, hence the city is rich in forts, temples, and palaces becoming a place to be explored for its magnificent and grandeur of India. Other than the architectural marvels the city is celebrated for Kolhapuri chappals; Indian handcrafted leather slippers and Kolhapuri Saaj; A unique necklace made by local jewelers. Apart from the architectural beauty, the historical and cultural richness of the city makes it a touristic place.
10 places signifying the culture of the city:
1. Maharaja palace:
Maharaja Palace, also known as “New Palace” is a blend of Rajasthani, Gujarati, and Jain style architecture, built by British architect Mant in 1884. Want to explore the history of Chhatrapati? Their clothes, living styles, games, pieces of jewelry, weapons, or royal culture, this palace is a must-visit. Housing a zoo, museum, and multiple parks, this palace stands out from other places in the city.
2. Binkhambi Ganesh Mandir, Kolhapur
An outstanding example of architecture; carved out of a pillar, whose roof is not supported by even a single column makes it stand out from many architectural marvels. The temple is also said as a breathing escape from the crowded locality, the streetscape leading to the temple is beautifully occupied by local street food, books, and souvenirs. Tourists visit the temple for its unique architectural features and local people visit the place regularly and mostly during festivals like Ganesh Chaturthi and Sankasthis.
Image Sources: ©www.holidayiq.com
3. Vishal ghat fort
The oldest structure in the hilltop of Kolhapur is a fort built by Marsinh, a Shilahara ruler. The fort is rich with several historical monuments inside the campus, including Shri Nrusinha Temple, the Tomb of Hazrat Malik Raihan, the Amruteshwar Temple, Takmak Tok, and Sati’s Vrindavan. It also has samadhi of Phulaji Prabhu Deshpande and Baji Prabhu Deshpande who has a story of giving up their lives for Shivaji. With the historical stories and monuments, the fort itself is downing into ruins, overlooking the whole city since 1058 AD.
4. Bhawani mandap
The biggest and oldest monument of the city Kolhapur “Bhawani mandap” is now re-adapted as a public heritage site that was used for courts during the times of Marathas and the palace of Chhatrapati Maharaj. The mandap was constructed with fine carving and it had 14 square but during 1813 the palace was invaded by a Muslim and half of its part was burnt; only 7 squares were survived. With great warriors and their stories, the mandap also has sacred importance which makes the place publicly engaged.
5. Mahalakshmi temple
With the beautiful Indian architectural style, back then since the 7th century, the place holds a scientific beauty of Indian beliefs. As justified by the name the temple encloses Mahalaxmi’s deity at the center who is worshipped by Indians as an idol signifies money. The temple is famous for the festival of sun rays, named as Kirnotsav celebration. This is the day when sun rays directly fall in Garbhagriha, on the Mahalaxmi idol.
6. Kopeshwar temple
Kopeshwar, on the banks of Krishna River, is a temple enclosing lord Vishnu idol with a Shivling named Kopleshwar facing north. It was built in the 11th century and was renovated afterward. The temple is a carved beauty with 92 elephants in the exterior and 108 pillars in the interior. Inside the temple, a semi-circular ceiling makes it unique and gives it a value of ancient sculpture.
7. Sajja Kothi
Located in Panhala fort, Sajja Kothi is a marvelous architectural spot to be seen while visiting the fort in the city. Built-in Mughal architectural style, the Kothi is not only rich in historical evidence but attracts tourism with its aesthetic value.
8. Ramling caves, temples, Palsambe
A sacred religious site with architectural ruins, the rambling cave is a worthwhile drive nearby, signifying the city of the temple in and around the city. Surrounded by green foliages, with medicinal plants and serene environments this site adds a sacred value to the city.
Image Sources: ©www.timesofindia.indiatimes.com
9. Shalini palace
The Palace named after the princess of Kolhapur, Shalini is a great example of Italian architecture, carved out with black marble, intricately carved wooden doors and windows fitted with Belgium glass signifies its magnificent richness of that time. The palace was built in 1931-34 and converted into a 3-star hotel afterward.
10. Shopping in Kolhapur
Last but not the least, shopping! Every city is famous for something, and that something adds a unique value defining a place’s individuality and local culture. Kolhapur is famous for Kolhapuri chappals (slippers), Kolhapuri Saaj (jewelry), and jaggery comes in the locally famous products of the city.
The city Kolhapur is an amalgamation of sacred religious beliefs and Maratha history. With local craft richness, the city has a significant architectural and touristic value.
References
https://www.yatrablog.com/architectural-wonders-of-kolhapur
https://kolhapur.gov.in/en/about-district/
https://www.holidify.com/places/kolhapur/sightseeing-and-things-to-do.html
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Shalini_Palace
https://www.trawel.co.in/city/Kolhapur/binkhambi-ganesh-mandir-kolhapur
http://oneindiaonepeople.com/kolhapur-where-art-struggles-to-live-on/
