Kolhapur, also known as Shahu Nagari, holds a distinguished place in Indian cinema and cultural history. In 1913, Baburao Painter, a visionary artist and filmmaker, created India’s first film camera here, a groundbreaking achievement that led to the production of Sairandhri (1920), one of the earliest silent films. This pioneering effort established Kolhapur as a significant hub for Indian cinema.
The city’s influence extended beyond filmmaking, nurturing luminaries like Asha Bhosale, Lata Mangeshkar, and Raj Kapoor, who spent their early years here. Visionary filmmakers like Bhalji Pendharkar and institutions like Jayprabha Studios cemented Kolhapur's legacy in the cinematic world.
This tour also offers a cultural dive into Kolhapur’s traditional wrestling culture by visiting local talims (training grounds), where the age-old art of kusti (traditional wrestling) thrives. These talims reflect the city's deep connection to physical fitness, discipline, and sportsmanship. As you walk through the historic lanes of Mangalwar Peth and Shivaji Peth, and finally arrive at Jayprabha Studios, you’ll witness how Kolhapur seamlessly weaves its royal, cultural, and cinematic heritage into its vibrant identity.
What is included in the tour
- Guided heritage walk focusing on Kolhapur’s cinematic and cultural legacy.
- Visits to Baburao Painter’s statue and residence.
- Exploration of historic lanes in Mangalwar Peth and Shivaji Peth.
- Visits to traditional talims to witness Kolhapur’s wrestling culture.
- Insights into the lives of icons like Asha Bhosale, Lata Mangeshkar, and Raj Kapoor.
- Visit to Jayprabha Studios and discussions on its cinematic significance.
What is NOT included in the tour
- Transportation to and from the starting point.
- Meals and beverages.
- Entry fees, if applicable, at any studio or heritage site.
- Personal expenses and tips for the guide.
- Baburao Painter Statue at Khari Corner: Begin your journey at this iconic statue, commemorating Baburao Painter’s invention of India’s first film camera in 1913, and learn about his contributions to cinema and art.
- Residence of Baburao Painter: Visit the home of this pioneering filmmaker and hear stories about his life, innovations, and how he laid the foundation of Indian cinema.
- Lanes of Mangalwar Peth and Shivaji Peth: Walk through the historic streets where legends like Asha Bhosale, Lata Mangeshkar, and Raj Kapoor spent their formative years. Relive the memories of their connection to Kolhapur.
- Local Talims in Mangalwar Peth: Explore Kolhapur’s traditional talims, where the ancient wrestling sport of kusti is still practiced. Discover how these talims preserve the city’s age-old sports culture and discipline.
- Understanding Kolhapur’s Cinematic Legacy: Delve into the history of Kolhapur as the birthplace of Indian cinema and its transformation into a cultural and artistic hub.
- Bhalji Pendharkar’s Contributions: Learn about this legendary filmmaker who highlighted India’s historical and cultural narratives through his epic films.
- Jayprabha Studios: Conclude your tour at this iconic studio, which stands as a landmark of Kolhapur’s cinematic history, where many classic films were created.
Starting Point: Khari Corner
Begin the tour at Khari Corner, where the statue of Baburao Painter commemorates his invention of India’s first film camera in 1913. Learn about his pioneering efforts that established Kolhapur as a hub for cinema.
Stop 1: Baburao Painter’s Residence
Walk to Baburao Painter’s home and hear stories about his life, his artistic genius, and his role in shaping Indian cinema.
Stop 2: Lanes of Mangalwar Peth and Shivaji Peth
Explore the old lanes of Mangalwar Peth and Shivaji Peth, where Asha Bhosale, Lata Mangeshkar, and Raj Kapoor once walked during their formative years. Relive the memories of their connection to Kolhapur.
Stop 3: Local Talims in Mangalwar Peth
Visit traditional talims in Mangalwar Peth, where the ancient sport of kusti (wrestling) is still practiced. Understand how these talims preserve Kolhapur’s rich wrestling culture and values of discipline and strength.
Stop 4: Kolhapur’s Role in Cinema
Pause at a scenic spot to discuss Kolhapur’s cinematic history, from silent films to its evolution as a cultural hub for Indian cinema.
Stop 5: Bhalji Pendharkar’s Legacy
Learn about the legendary filmmaker Bhalji Pendharkar, his contributions to Indian cinema, and his passion for depicting India’s historical and cultural narratives.
Final Stop: Jayprabha Studios
Conclude your journey at Jayprabha Studios, one of Kolhapur’s most iconic cinematic landmarks. Learn about its role in creating many legendary films and its lasting significance in Indian cinema.
This updated itinerary offers a seamless blend of cinematic history, cultural heritage, and sports tradition, providing an enriching experience of Kolhapur’s multifaceted legacy.
