Shahu of Kolhapur (1874–1922)
Born 1874 CE, died 1922 CE.
Shahu Maharaj (26 June 1874 – 6 May 1922), also known as Chhatrapati Rajarshi Shahu or Shahu IV, was the ruler of the princely state of Kolhapur in British India from 1894 to 1922. Born Yeshwantrao Ghatge into the Ghatge Maratha family of Kagal, he was adopted by the Kolhapur royal family on 17 March 1884 following the death of the childless Raja Shivaji IV. He received his education at Rajkumar College in Rajkot and was tutored in administrative affairs by Sir Stuart Fraser before ascending to the throne on 2 April 1894. During his 28-year reign, Shahu Maharaj implemented social and educational reforms aimed at improving conditions for lower-caste communities. His administration issued a reservation order on 26 July 1902 that provided 50% reservation in government jobs and education for backward classes, establishing one of India's earliest affirmative action policies. He established numerous educational institutions including hostels for various caste and religious communities, and made primary education compulsory and free in his state in 1917.
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