About Shree Chhatrapati Shahu Museum
Shree Chhatrapati Shahu Museum is a heritage museum located within the New Palace in Kolhapur, Maharashtra. Built between 1877 and 1884 by architect Charles Mant, it houses royal memorabilia of the Kolhapur rulers. The museum was inaugurated in 1974 to commemorate Rajarshi Shahu Maharaj's birth centenary. Exhibits include costumes, weapons, jewellery, silver elephant saddles, stuffed animals, and artifacts reflecting Maratha royal history and culture.
Visitors guide
Visitors can explore royal memorabilia including costumes, weapons, jewellery, and silver elephant saddles displayed in the historic New Palace. The museum features a recreated Darbar Hall with Italian stained-glass paintings, galleries dedicated to Rajarshi Shahu Maharaj, and collections of stuffed animals hunted by the royal family. The palace complex includes gardens, fountains, and an adjacent open zoo with migratory birds.
Key highlights
- 01
Royal memorabilia including costumes, weapons, jewellery and silver elephant saddles
- 02
Recreated Darbar Hall with Italian stained-glass paintings depicting Chhatrapati Shivaji's life
- 03
Gallery dedicated to Rajarshi Shahu Maharaj's personal belongings and correspondence
- 04
Collection of stuffed animals and hunting artifacts from the royal family
- 05
Historic palace architecture blending Jain, Hindu and Rajwada styles built 1877-1884
- 06
Adjacent garden, lake and open zoo within the palace premises
History of Shree Chhatrapati Shahu Museum
The New Palace was constructed between 1877 and 1884 at a cost of seven lakh rupees. The museum was inaugurated in 1974 on the birth centenary of Rajarshi Shahu Maharaj, who is regarded as one of Kolhapur's most progressive rulers. It preserves memorabilia of the descendants of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj and documents the royal family's contributions to social reform, wrestling promotion, and cultural development.
Culture & Context
The museum represents the diverse interests, accomplishments, and lifestyle of the Kolhapur royal family. It showcases intricate embroidery and beadwork created by queens, family trees connecting Chhatrapati Shivaji's ancestors to Rajasthan royalty, and artifacts reflecting Maratha heritage. The collection includes letters exchanged with British viceroys and generals, documenting colonial-era relations.