MOTHER MAHALAKSHMI OF KOLHAPUR

HISTORICITY

The history of Kolhapur is a strange combination of mythology and history. Upto ninth century, legendary accounts are available and arc abundant also. When Rastrakutas come to power with Kolhapur as capital, its history unfolds slowly. It is with Amoghavarsha's inscriptions in 817 AD, its historicity begins. Several endowments made to the temple arc recorded on copper plates and walls and they shed light on the names of rulers and their reign. Strangely enough, the first inscription brings to light Amoghavarsh's benign rule and the paternal care, he bestowed on people. It states that this celebrated ruler cut one of his fingers to making an offer to the Mother for bringing peace to the country, when there was crisis. Kadmabas who followed, likewise made offerings to the Mother on several occasions. Then came Silaharas, whose rule was blessed by the Mother on several occasions including that of giving life to Jimutavahana. All these Hindu kings were ardent worshippers of Mahalakshmi, though sonic of them were Jains by religion. Some other rulers, like Kalyan Chalukyas and Yadavas also endowed to the temple lavishly.

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