Kolhapur is a historic city in southwestern Maharashtra, India, located on the banks of the Panchganga River at an elevation of 569 meters (1,867 ft) in the Sahyadri Mountains of the Western Ghats. Known as “Dakshin Kashi” (Kashi of the South) due to its spiritual significance, it is a major cultural, historical, and industrial hub in South Maharashtra. Below is a detailed overview of Kolhapur based on available information:

Historical and Cultural Significance

Origin and Name: Kolhapur derives its name from a mythological legend involving the demon Kolhasur, who was defeated by Goddess Mahalakshmi. His dying wish was to have the city named after him, leading to the name Kolhapur (“Kolha” for Kolhasur and “pur” meaning city in Sanskrit).

Historical Background: The city’s history traces back to the Satavahana Empire, with evidence of an ancient town from the Roman era found during 1945 excavations at Brahmapuri. It was a significant center for Buddhism and Jainism, with stone inscriptions from the Shilahar kingdom (8th–12th century CE) referring to it as “Kshullakpur” and “Kalapuri.” Under the Maratha Empire, particularly during the reign of Chhatrapati Shahu Maharaj (1894–1922), Kolhapur became a cultural and progressive hub, fostering arts, theater, wrestling, and crafts.

Dynasty and Royalty: Ruled by the Bhonsle dynasty, descendants of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, Kolhapur was a princely state during British rule. The last ruler was Chhatrapati Shahaji II Puar. The city retains royal heritage through landmarks like the New Palace and Shalini Palace
Geography and Climate

Location: Situated 373 km south of Mumbai, 230 km south of Pune, and near cities like Ichalkaranji (27 km) and Sangli (47 km). It lies at coordinates 15°73’ to 17°11’ N and 73°75’ to 74°70’ E.

Climate: Kolhapur has a blend of coastal and inland climate, with temperatures ranging from 10–35°C (50–95°F). Summers (March–May) are humid but cooler than neighboring cities, with highs of 33–35°C. The monsoon season (June–September) brings heavy rainfall due to proximity to the Western Ghats, often causing floods (e.g., in 2005, 2006, 2019, 2021). Winters (November–February) are mild, with lows of 9–16°C and highs of 24–32°C. The best time to visit is October to March.

Natural Features: The Panchganga River, with tributaries like Bhogavati, Tulsi, Kumbhi, Kasari, and Dhamani, flows through the city. Lakes like Rankala (a former stone quarry) and Kalamba provide potable water. Nearby dams include Radhanagari and Kalambawadi.

Cultural Highlights Religious Significance: Kolhapur is renowned for the Shri Mahalakshmi Temple (Ambabai), a 7th-century Deccan-style Shakti Peetha dedicated to Goddess Mahalakshmi, believed to reside there after a dispute with Lord Vishnu. Other notable temples include Jyotiba Temple (18 km away) and Bhavani Mandap.

Cuisine: Kolhapur is famous for its spicy cuisine, including Kolhapuri mutton curry, Tambda and Pandhra Rassa (red and white curries), Misal Pav, and Ukdiche Modak. Street foods like batata vada and beverages like Aam Panna are also popular.

Handicrafts: The city is known for Kolhapuri chappals (handcrafted leather slippers with a 2019 Geographical Indication status) and Kolhapuri Saaj (traditional jewelry like necklaces, bangles, and nose rings). Other crafts include hand-block printing, pottery, and lacquerware.

Festivals: Diwali, Ganesh Chaturthi, Navaratri, and Holi are celebrated with enthusiasm, reflecting the city’s vibrant cultural life.