Caption: The Front view of the Palace after entering the gate.
On the occasion of 101st death anniversary Chatrapati Shahu Maharaj on 06th May, I want to offer my tribute by writing this post in which I am sharing about my visit to the New Royal Palace also known as Chatrapati Shahu Palace which is situated at Kolhapur in Indian state of Maharashtra.
Caption: The Half Statue of Chatrapati Shahu Maharaj in front of the Palace Entrance.
Chatrapati Shahu Maharaj was a monarch of the Maratha Empire in India who reigned from 1874 to 1922. He is credited with introducing several progressive social reforms and empowering the lower caste communities of India. He is remembered for his enlightened and progressive rule, and for being one of the earliest proponents of social justice in India. He is credited for introducing many reforms for the upliftment of the lower castes, such as abolishing the system of untouchability and allowing the lower castes to enter temples. He also introduced various laws to protect the rights of women, such as the provision of free primary education for all children irrespective of caste and gender. He also actively promoted the education of women and set up scholarships for girls in educational institutions. Additionally, he introduced reforms in revenue administration and the judicial system, and was a champion of the rights of peasants and agricultural workers. He is also remembered for his patronage of the arts and literature, and for his efforts to promote the Marathi language and culture. He was also a noted philanthropist and a strong advocate of communal harmony and religious tolerance in India.
Caption: Main Entrance Gate.
The New Royal Palace in Kolhapur, India, is a magnificent structure bulit in black polished stone in that reflects the grandeur of the royal era. It took 7 years to complete i.e. from 1877 to 1884. This palace is located in the heart of the city and serves as a reminder of the city’s glorious past. The Chatrapati Shahu Palace is a royal palace located in the city of Kolhapur in the Indian state of Maharashtra. It was built in 1887 by Maharaja Shahu Chhatrapati of Kolhapur, and is the largest palace in the region. The palace is home to the descendants of the former rulers of Kolhapur. It is a complex of buildings, courtyards and gardens, and a grandiose entrance gate. It has two entrance gate. On the first gate we have to buy the entrance ticket. On my visit on 30th April 2023 which was Sunday, I found the moderate queue for buying the entrance ticket.
Caption: The Entrance Ticket booking counter.
The palace houses a number of exquisite artifacts, including paintings, sculptures and furniture in a museum called Shahaji Chatrapati Museum showcasing the history of the Chatrapati Shahu Maharaj and Chatrapati Shahaji Maharaj. The palace grounds are also home to a beautiful garden. The palace complex consists of several courtyards, gardens, and houses a museum.
Caption: Second gate of the palace.
The palace is a symbol of the grandeur of the Maratha rule in Kolhapur, and is a popular venue for cultural and religious events. The palace is spread over an area of 6.5 acres and is a magnificent example of Maratha architecture. The palace is a popular tourist destination.
Caption: Close shot of the front side of the Palace.
Caption: The structure of the compound wall.
Caption: Entrance of the Museum.
Caption: An Ancient Cannon placed at the Entrance of the Museum.
In the Museum we can see the collection of artifacts of the Chatrapatis of Kolhapur such as costumes, games, weapons, jewellery, embroidery and silver elephant saddles. Another memoir is a letter from the British Viceroy and Governor General of India. The Sword of Aurangzeb has also kept at Shahaji Chatrapati Museum. One section includes tiger, tiger head, wild dog, sloth bear, wild buffalo, lion, black panther, wild boar, black deer, several other deer species and the Himalayan black bear which was hunted by Chatrapati Shahaji and Chatrapati Shahu Maharaj. Unfortunately the photography is not allowed inside the Museum.
Caption: Side view of the Palace shows the Clock Tower.
Caption: The Washroom.
The administration has provided excellent facility of Washroom which was very hygienic and beautifully constructed.
Caption: The Half Statue of the Chatrapati Shahaji Maharaj at the second gate.
Caption: Me clicking the photos of palace. Photo clicked by my friend Mr. Jayant Kamble.
The New Royal Palace in Kolhapur is a stunning historical landmark and a must-visit for any traveler to the city. With its grand architecture and rich history, it is an essential part of exploring the city’s culture and heritage. Approximately, 1-2 hour is needed to roam and observe the each and every thing in the museum. On looking at the historical things we may feel like we have gone in to that historical era and many questions comes in mind like how did they do it.
On the 101st Death Anniversary of Rajarshi Chatrapati Shahu Maharaj, my sincere tribute to real Royal minded King of Kolhapur 
.
How to reach:
It is 3.5 kms from Kolhapur Central Bus Stand from where we can get city buses and also Rickshaws.
Nearest attractions:
- Mahalakshmi Mandir
- Rankala Lake
- Khasbaug Ground
- Town Hall Museum
- Panhala Fort
- Nrusinhawadi
- Bhavani Mandap (I have shared about this place before. Click here to read)