Karad is a city in Satara district in the southern part of Indian state of Maharashtra and it is 305.2 km (189.64 miles) from Mumbai. It lies at the confluence of Koyna River and the Krishna River. The two rivers originate at Mahabaleshwar, which is around 100 km from Karad.They diverge at their origin, and travel for about the same distance to meet again in Karad.The rivers meet exactly head on, thus forming letter "T" which is the only head on confluence in the world.Hence Krishna and koyna river's confluence is called Preeti Sangam, meaning Confluence of Love.Karad is well known for sugar production and is known as the sugar bowl of Maharashtra owing to the presence of many sugar factories in and around Karad.It is considered as an important educational hub in Western Maharashtra due to the presence of many prestigious educational institutes.This place is also known for resting place or (Samadhi) of the first chief minister of Maharashtra Shri.Yashwantrao Chavan situated at the confluence of Krishna and Koyana river.Karad has an adjoining small town named Malkapur, Karad which has its own municipal council and a population of 31,671. Karad city was awarded a prize under "Sant Gadagebaba Gramswachatta Abhiyan" started by Indian Government.
History
It was originally known as "Karhatak", meaning "Elephant Market".In ancient times, Karad was famous as a commercial place. This place is on the bank of the 'Karha River'. Here a
'kar' or tax was gathered on the various marketing commodities in Karad Taluka.
Many people were gathering a tax on commodities in the study region and
surrounding regions. So it was known as 'Karad' referred to 'Kar' (tax). Karad is also a city of historical importance. According to Mahabharata, Sahadeva one of the Pandavas lived in the city also known to be pious as Lord Rama stepped his feet on this land.Located to the south west of Karad is Karad Caves.
The first capital of the Shilaharas was probably at Karad during the reign of Jatiga-II as known from their copper plate grant of Miraj and Vikramankadevacharita of Bilhana. Hence sometimes they are referred as 'Shilaharas of Karad'. The capital was later shifted to Kolhapur. Among the Silaharas of Kolhapur who ruled over Satara and Belganv districts from 1000 to 1215 A. D., Gonka deserves mention here, as he is described as the Lord of Karhad (Karad), Mairifvja (Miraj) and Konkan.
Also a Major event in history is witnessed by the Krishna River Banks, His Highness Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj once washed his weapon which is known as Waghnakhya and Bichhwa in the River Krishna's waters.
Karad is likewise known for some Mughal-age building design like the twin minarets of the Jama Masjid mosque that is placed in the heart of the town. It was additionally meeting purpose of Haji blessed pioneer "Haj" in the Mughal period (1526 ‒ 1857).
Features & Geography
Major landmarks in the city include Kolhapur Naka, MSRTC Bus Stand, Krishna Naka, Karve Naka, Jama Masjid, Chawadi Chowk, Krishna Ghat, Historical Manora, Bhaji Mandai, Bheda Hospital Chowk, Town Hall, Shivaji Stadium, Krishna Canal Chowk, Vidyanagar, Yashwant Highschool, Cottage Hospital, Dutta Chowk,Chawdi Chowk,Kanya Shala, Tilak Highschool,etc.
Karad is located at 17.28°N 74.2°E.It has an average elevation of 566 metres (1856 feet). Karad is located near Agashiva 17.237506°N 74.15205°E. It has been referred in great epic Mahabharata. It has the shape of an "Aum" (Devanagari) when viewed aerially.
According to 2001 census the total population of Karad taluka is
5,44,296.The Rural population is 4,83,915 and Urban population is 60,340 The sex
ratio of the study region is 960 females per 1000 males, which is always higher in
the rural areas as compared to urban areas. Male population of Karad taluka is 2,
77,492 and female population is 2, 66,763
Tourism
Karad is
well connected to other parts of the Maharashtra. It is the main market place on the
National Highway No. 4. Marketing facilities are dominant in this region. Karad is
situated on the bank of Krishna river and famous for confluence of Krishna and
Koyana Rivers. This place is known as 'Pritisangam'. Karad is one of the important
place in the country, where two rivers meeting in front of 1800 angle.
Karad is Taluka headquarter and famous for Agashiv caves. There as an
old kot near the sangam still there are some remaining parts which give an idea
about fort, which was constructed during Bahamani period. Stepped and well
constructed Naktya Rawalchi Vihir, Masjid Built by Sultan Ali Adilshah (1557- 1580). The population of hindu is greater than others Muslim people are also living
here. Jain temple, Venutai Chavan Pratishthan Sangharalaya, Muncipalty and
Chachegaon caves, the tall Minars are the old monuments this city. As per 2001
census, Karad Taluka has 10 mandal offices and 221 inhabited villages for
administrative purpose. The Taluka is divided in 10 sub-divisions like Karad,
Supane, Indoli, Masur, Umbarj, Koparde Haveli, kole, Kale, Shenoli, and Undale.
Karad taluka lies in the western limits of Deccan pleateau and the southern Maharashtra particularly in Satara district. The entire land of the Taluka belongs to
the larger drainage system of the Krishna and Koyana rivers.There are two major ranges, the sahyadries and mahadeo. The four hills
in the Karad taluka are Agashiv, pal, Sadashivgad and Vasantgad. Agashiv is
standing on the southern part of Karad city, about 800 metre from the plain, has a
pointed top Agashiv hill is a prominent object about four miles South west to
Karad. The sides are steep and scantily covered with scrubs, on the south-east of
the hill is a group of Buddhist caves
Karad Taluka is one of the developed urban centre. Masur, Umbraj,
Kale, Shenoli, Undale circles are developed and many people are engaged in
primary, secondary and Teritary activities.
Some famous tourist points near karad are
| Sr. no | Name of the spot | Length(in Kms) |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Preeti sangam | 1 |
| 2 | Yashwantrao Chavan's Samadhi | 3.8 |
| 3 | Shri Khandoba Devsthan,Pal | 30 |
| 4 | Sadashivgad | App.5 ‒ 8 |
| 5 | Agashiv Caves | App.5 ‒ 8 |
| 6 | Vasantgad | App.15 ‒ 20 |
| 7 | Talbid (Ram Mandir) | App.15 ‒ 20 |
| 8 | Sar-Senapati Hambirrao Mohite Samadhi | App.15 ‒ 20 |
| 9 | Ram Mandir Chaphal | App.30 ‒ 35 |
| 10 | Koyna Dam | App.60 ‒ 65 |
| 11 | Chandoli Dam | App.50 ‒ 60 |
| 12 | Uttarmand Dam | 40 |
| 13 | Sagareshwar Wildlife Sanctuary | 28 |
| 14 | Valmiki Temple & Big Wild Area | 45 |
| 15 | Pachawadeswar | 8 |
| 16 | Kaas pathaar | App.80 ‒ 90 |
| 17 | Thoseghar Waterfall | App.80 ‒ 90 |
| 18 | Walmiki | 45 |
Cityscape & Demographics
The city boasts many important government offices and other institutions of significance. With the vision of great leader Yashwantrao Chavan the city was one of the few in India to have a well- planned underground drainage system well before in the 1960s.As of 2011 India census,Karad town and surrounding villages had total population of 74,355. Males constitute 52% of the population and females 48%. Karad has an average literacy rate of 76%, higher than the national average of 59.5%: male literacy is 80%, and female literacy is 72%. In Karad, 11% of the population is under 6 years of age. People from different cultures live here but vast majority belong to Hinduism and Speak Marathi language.
Transportation
The National Highway 4 goes by Karad city. National Highway 4 (NH 4) is a major National Highway in Western and Southern India. NH 4 links three of the 10 most populous Indian cities - Mumbai, Bengaluru, Chennai.In the study region, the road network is well developed. Transport and communication play a vital role in economic development of the region. The National highway No. 4 (Pune-Bangalore) stretches from North to South direction about 45 Kms. Karad-Natepute,Khandala-Karad, Karad-Pandharpur, Patan- Karad, Karad-Kokrude are the state roads which account for 123.00 Kms. in length. In the study region Umbraj, Masur, Undale, Supane regions are well connected to state road or National Highway No. 4 Main District Roads length is 230.00 km. in the study region. Many Villages are connected to other villages and highly scattered village roads are in Karad Taluka. Its length is 533.85 kms.Form the eastern part of the study region. Pune-Bangalore broad gauge railway route stretches north to south about 40km. On this railway route Masur, Karad, Shenoli are the main railway stations. An Airstrip was constructed in the 1955 by the Public Works Department to facilitate the Koyna dam project. It is currently being used for General aviation and pilot training.Karad has railway station and is onroute from Mumbai to Miraj, Sangli, Kolhapur, and Bangalore.
Economy
Karad has the Taswade MIDC in its vicinity which boasts many industries giving employment to people in the Satara District. Karad has the presence of Emerson Climate Technologies and Pidilite Industries Ltd. Karad is famous for its Jaggery and Cattle markets in entire Maharashtra. Jaggery of very high quality is manufactured and traded here. Such quality of jaggery is rarely available and one of the best in the world. Chikki named after an Indian dessert is one of the specialty jaggery which in used as an key ingredient during Indian festival of Makar Sankaranti. There is a big Market yard where various commodities are traded and the geographical location of the city add to its benefit since it is known as the gateway to Konkan region from Western Maharashtra. Karad is well known for sugar production and is known as the sugar bowl of Maharashtra owing to the presence of many sugar factories in and around Karad.
Education
Karad has many high schools, engineering colleges, arts,science, commerce colleges, polytechnic colleges , etc. Karad is known for its rich and prestigious educational institutes such as Government College of Engineering, Government College of Pharmacy and the Krishna Institute of Medical Sciences.
Culture
The city has a major hall for cultural activities and exhibitions: Yashwantrao Chavan Memorial - Town Hall. Cultural events of various organizations and gatherings of schools are also held here.The "Venutai Chavan Hall" is used for classical concerts,conducting national and international seminars on topics like science, space, traditions, culture, spirituality, etc.Karad has a tradition of literature lovers.
The prestigious 76th Akhil Bharatiya Marathi Sahitya Sammelan was held at banks of Krishna river in Karad in 2003.In the honor of his contribution to building modern Maharashtra a small visiting museum is created in the residence of Late Shri Yashwantrao Chavan in Karad. An ancient Well named Naktya Rawalchi Vihir is located near Krishna river in Karad which shows the well planned construction techniques followed during the ancient times."Vijay Diwas" is celebrated every year since 1998, as Victory Day, by Trishakti Foundation in the town of Karad. It is usually celebrated in the month of December. Col. Sambhaji Patil (Retd), the Founder President of Trishakti Foundation, is leading from the front, to ensure total success of this event. The main event is the Military tattoo at the Shivaji Stadium, Karad. It is a grand show of military valor, bravery, physical fitness and endurance by Defense Forces and Police. The school children perform tattoos demonstrating their potential, spirit and youthfulness. The stadium is full to its capacity of more than 40,000 spectators.The late Yashwantrao Chavan Agricultural, Industrial and Cattle Show is mega regional Agricultural event of global standards held at Karad, by Krishi Uttpanna Bajar Samiti Karad since 2001. The event of around 500 exhibitors provides an excellent platform under one roof for showcasing the latest technology in agriculture, poultry and livestock, dairy, agro services and food processing and technology etc.the famous satari kandi pede can be found here. Puranpoli is a major dish for festive occasions like bail pola, holi, gudi padwa,etc.
Sports
The Shivaji Cricket Stadium is situated at the heart of Karad city and is a famous sightseeing spot visited by tourists.
The cricket stadium has an international standard turf wicket. Apart from cricket, this stadium is used for organizing local events and political rallies. This stadium is renowned for holding two Ranji Trophy matches.It also has an indoor badminton court.Wrestling Olympian medal winner shee.K.D.Jadhav is the idol of sport world is from karad ,goleshwar. Born in very poor farmer family at Goleshwar Tal. Karad, the only Olympic Medal Winner for India till 2000.He was honored by individual Bronze medal on 23'rd July 1952, in 1952 Helsinki Olympic Games for Wrestling in bantamweight which is the unbeaten record for India in wrestling till today.
In 1993, Maharashtra State awarded him Shiv Chatrapati Award posthumously. In 2001, Central Govt. has also awarded him 'Arjuna Award' posthumously.
Notable people
- Gopal Ganesh Agarkar (1856 ‒ 1895), social reformer and newspaper editor
- Khashaba Jadhav (15 January 1926 ‒ 14 August 1984) Born in a very poor farming family at Goleshwar Tal. Karad, the only Olympic Medal Winner for India until 2000. He was honored by individual Bronze medal on 23 July 1952, in the 1952 Helsinki Olympic Games for wrestling in bantamweight, which is the unbeaten record for India in wrestling until today. In 1993, Maharashtra State awarded him the Shiv Chatrapati Award posthumously. In 2001, the Central Government also awarded him the Arjuna Award posthumously.
- Yashwantrao Chavan (12 March 1913 ‒ 25 November 1984), an eminent Congress party politician, hailed from Karad. He was the first Chief Minister of Maharashtra and also served as the defence minister, finance minister, home minister, foreign affairs minister, and as the Deputy Prime Minister of India and became the first and only person from Maharashtra to reach up to this political level. Tembhu, one of the mega-projects under the Krishna Valley scheme, is situated near Karad.
- Premalabai Chavan (July 2, 1918 ‒ July 8, 2003) was an Indian lawmaker and was an individual from the Lok Sabha and the Rajya Sabha. The Founder-President of the All India Women's Cricket Association, she was included in different exercises that added to the welfare of ladies in Indian culture. Premalakaki Chavan is striking for holding the record for the most number of representations (four) in the Lok Sabha and the Rajya Sabha, by a female M.P. from Maharashtra.
- Govind Ballabh Pant - He was a veteran Indian flexibility contender and lawmaker who nearby Mahatma Gandhi and Jawaharlal Nehru was a key figure in the development for India's freedom and in this way was a urgent figure in the autonomous Indian Government. He was one of the first political pioneers from Uttarakhand (then in United Provinces) and of the development to build up Hindi as the official dialect of India. Mr. Gasp got India's most elevated non military personnel respect, the Bharat Ratna in 1957. His family have their roots in Karad.
- Prithviraj Chavan : He was the 17th Chief Minister of Maharashtra. Chavan served as the Minister of State in the Prime Minister's Office in the Ministry of Parliamentary Affairs and Ministry of Personnel, Public Grievances, and Pensions. Chavan was also General Secretary of the All-India Congress Committee (AICC), in-charge of many states, including Jammu and Kashmir, Karnataka, Haryana, Gujarat, Tripura, and Arunachal Pradesh.
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