Kolhapur Pincodes

Kolhapur, nestled in Maharashtra, embodies beauty and heritage. A pivotal South Maharashtra city steeped in cultural legacy, it thrives as a historical and religious nucleus, tracing its significance to 1st century BC. Magnificent temples and intricate carvings captivate visitors, echoing its enduring past. The city’s allure extends to its famed Kolhapuri cuisine, a delight for locals and tourists alike. Sports, arts, and indigenous dialects form Kolhapur’s cultural mosaic, celebrating diversity and unity. Known as “Dakshin Kashi” or “Mahateerth,” this western Maharashtra gem holds various monikers like Kollagiri and Kolladigiripattan, each echoing its essence as a “valley,” painting a rich tapestry of history and heritage.

History

The Shilahara dynasty, emerging post the Rashtrakuta Empire’s decline, established their reign in Kolhapur, encompassing Satara, Kolhapur, and Belagavi districts. Worshiping goddess Ambabai, their divine patron, revered in copperplate grants (Mahalakshmi-labdha-vara-prasada). Claiming lineage from Vidyadhara Jimutavahana, a Jain scholar akin to their Konkan kin, the Shilaharas adorned their flag with a golden Garuda. Tagarapuravaradhisvara, denoting supremacy as the ruler of Tagara, adorned their many titles. Renowned for their heritage, the Shilahara dynasty left an indelible mark on southern Maharashtra’s history, shaping the cultural and historical tapestry of the region.

Demography

Based on the 2011 Census of India, Kolhapur city’s population stood at 549,236, while within the ‘Kolhapur Municipal and Regional Development Authority,’ it reached 561,837. Notably, Kolhapur boasts a commendable Human Development Index rating of 0.770, one of the highest among Indian districts in 2011. In terms of religious demographics, the city comprises: Hindus – 460,774 (83.89%), Muslims – 59,760 (10.88%), Jains – 18,420 (3.35%), Christians – 5,251 (0.96%), Buddhists – 2,929 (0.53%), with 1,289 (0.23%) not stating their religion. Additionally, Sikhs accounted for 581 (0.11%), while 232 (0.04%) belonged to other religious affiliations.

Geography

Economy

Kolhapur, a thriving hub with a robust per capita domestic product surpassing the state’s average, hosts pivotal auto-ancillary, foundry, and casting industries. This nucleus serves as a backbone for regions like Sangli, Satara, Pune, and Bangalore. Within its MIDC precincts—Shiroli, Kagal, Gokul Shirgaon, and Shivaji Udyamnagar—industrial prowess reigns supreme. The city boasts 300 foundries contributing to a yearly export value of ₹15 billion, with major installations like Kirloskar Oil Engines Limited and Raymond clothes plant in Kagal. Notably, Kolhapur flaunts its heritage through the famed Kolhapuri chappal and diverse handicrafts, including textiles, jewelry, pottery, woodwork, and intricate lace embroidery, enriching Mahadwar Road’s cultural tapestry.