KOLHAPUR

Burud Galli in Kolhapur is a hub for bamboo craftsmanship and retail. The craft is practiced in areas such as Karvir, Kule, Salvan, Panhala, and Kushire, with raw materials sourced from Konkan, Malkapur, and Gargoti. Craftsmen from Kokhi, Kaikadi, Burud, and Medar communities, particularly from Karnataka, produce a variety of bamboo products, ranging from khurad, patti, butti, chairs, topla, and sup, priced between Rs. 50 and Rs. 7000. These products cater to both wholesale and retail markets.

Kolhapuri Chappal, also known as Paytaan, is a world-renowned leather sandal originating from Kolhapur. Made primarily from buffalo and bull hides imported from Hyderabad, these chappals are produced through both handmade and machine-cut methods. Handmade varieties are in higher demand and command premium prices. The production process includes tanning with dye or polish before the final product reaches the market. Prices range from Rs. 300 to over Rs. 10,000, depending on leather quality and craftsmanship. Popular styles include Kapshi, Amdaar, Minister, Angata Patti, Shahu, and Hare Ram. A unique variation contains seeds from a fruit called "vinchu," which creates a distinct sound when worn.

The chappal-making tradition is believed to have been initiated by Sant Rohidas Maharaj, and the industry observes a closure on his birth anniversary. Locals also say that Kolhapuri Chappals originated in the 12th century when King Bijjala encouraged production to uplift the cobbler community.

The market features numerous adjacent shops selling a wide range of traditional and modern footwear for all age groups. Broadly categorized into "Awaz wali chappal," which makes a noise while walking, and the silent variety, prices vary from Rs. 150 to Rs. 5000, with customized options costing up to Rs. 4500 or more. Custom orders can take one to six weeks to complete, reflecting the labor-intensive nature of the craft. Chappal Galli is a must-visit destination for tourists who often purchase Kolhapuri Chappals as souvenirs.

Pattankodoli, a village in Hatkanangale taluka, is renowned for the Vithaal Birdev Mandir, which attracts numerous visitors. Along the main road outside the temple, local shops sell Ghongadi, a traditional woolen blanket highly respected in Dhangar Samaj culture.

Ghongadi comes in various types, with the Dhangar Ghongadi being the most sought-after. Weighing approximately 5 kg, its demand surges during religious yatras. Locals say that performing tapasya on a Ghongadi could lead to spiritual enlightenment. Despite its weight, it is used year-round, providing warmth in winter and protection from the sun in summer.

Beyond its cultural significance, Ghongadi is valued for its health benefits, including promoting sound sleep, improving blood circulation, and relieving back pain. However, its popularity has declined in urban areas due to the increasing preference for modern mattresses and blankets, raising concerns about the preservation of this traditional craft.

Located near Mahadwar Road, Gujari Market is a hub for goldsmiths, locally known as 'Sarafs,' who specialize in designing and selling gold and silver jewelry. This market is a trusted destination for gold purchases, with many families maintaining relationships with specific jewelers across generations. Well-known shops include Mane Sarafs and Dattatray Karekar's establishments.

Kolhapuri Saaj and Kolhapuri Thushi, traditional gold jewelry styles, are famous nationwide. People from Mumbai, Pune, Bengaluru, and beyond purchase these ornaments, and the intricate design of Kolhapuri Saaj was once presented as a gift to the Queen of England.

Juna Bazaar, located near the mosque, is a traditional thrift market selling second-hand goods, including furniture, clothes, toys, books, and more. Many items are recycled or repurposed, with parts separated and resold. This marketplace has existed for over 100 years and is predominantly managed by the Muslim community.

Located on New Mahadwar Road, Kapil-Tirth Market is known for groceries, vegetable stalls, fruit vendors, and general stores. People from nearby residential areas frequently shop here. Named after the Kapileshwar Mandir, this market has attracted vendors from nearby villages for the past 10 to 15 years.

Kumbhar Galli, meaning "Potters' Lane," is a dedicated marketplace for earthenware and terracotta products. Items such as cooking utensils, ornaments, and decorative vases are sold at reasonable prices. Prices range from Rs. 3 for small items to significantly higher rates for elaborate pieces.

Mahadwar Road, meaning "The Main Gate," is a bustling commercial street in Kolhapur, historically serving as a key entry point to the city. Starting from Binkhambi Ganesh Mandir, a unique pillarless temple dedicated to Lord Ganesh, this vibrant street attracts both tourists and locals.

The street features numerous retail establishments, offering traditional clothing, Kolhapuri Chappals, toys, garlands, and jewelry. Many businesses here have grown from humble beginnings, such as Uday Jewellers, which started in 1996 with an investment of just Rs. 600 and has since expanded significantly.

A notable landmark on Mahadwar Road is Maharashtra Granth Bhandar, established in 1936. Initially focused on spreading the idea of nationality and brotherhood before independence, this bookstore has evolved into a publishing house specializing in Hindu literature. While book readership has declined, older patrons remain loyal customers.

Vankundre Brothers, established in 1958, is another landmark store on Mahadwar Road, specializing in traditional utensils made of brass, stainless steel, silver, aluminum, and bronze. Now in its third generation, the shop thrives on prioritizing customer service.

Kolhapur’s Mutton Market, located near Juna Bazaar, has long been a key center for meat trade, particularly due to the region’s demand for spicy cuisine. Traditionally operated by the Qureshi community, the market supports numerous livelihoods.

The market offers a variety of meats, including different chicken breeds and a wide range of fish species. Mutton, an essential ingredient in Kolhapuri cuisine, is sold in various cuts, catering to households, restaurants, and catering businesses. The market remains an integral part of the local food culture, despite fluctuating prices based on seasonality, demand, and quality.