2018-07-26 Thu

Rajarshi Shahu Chhatrapati was the Maharaja of Indian Princely State of Kolhapur. He was born as Yeshwantrao in the Ghatge Royal Maratha family.

Greatly influenced by the contributions of social reformer Jyotiba Phule, Shahu Maharaj was an able ruler who was associated with many progressive and path-breaking activities during his rule.

From his coronation in 1894 till his demise in 1922, he worked tirelessly for the cause of the lower caste subjects in his state. He introduced free education in Kolhapur and set up a chain of hostels where the children of the poor would be housed free of charge.

The great ruler and social reformer died on May 6, 1922. He was succeeded by his eldest son Rajaram III as the Maharaja of Kolhapur. To honor him India post has issued commemorative postage stamp.

Image Source: Mintage World