The Chhatrapati Shahu museum in Kolhapur was constructed during the period 1877 - 1884. It was designed by British architect 'Charles Mant' and was built according to an architectural style that had a fusion of Jain and Hindu influences from Gujarat and Rajasthan, along with a touch of the local Rajwada style.
The structure is made from black, polished stone and is certainly an architectural masterpiece. The ground floor of the New Palace accommodates the Shahaji Chhatrapati Musuem
The museum displays a variety of paintings, photographs, statues, and ornate pieces of furniture belonging to the Kolhapur rulers. The Shahu Gallery, devoted to the personal belongings of Rajarshi Shahu, exhibits letter exchanges with viceroys and British generals, photographs relating his life and contributions to the cultural and social betterment of the city. His promotion of wrestling, hunting, and progressive strategies are reflected through the items displayed in the gallery. Intricate embroidery and beadwork created by the queens are also displayed.
The arms gallery includes an elaborate collection of weapons and ammunition. This section also focuses on the tools that were made by royal demand to control elephants during combat or training. Elephant saddles and howdahs made of silver as well as the royal palanquin and crib are exhibited. The Photo Gallery has many interesting pictures of royalty including the eye-catching photograph of Shahaji II with the hundredth hunted tiger
The gallery of stuffed animals hunted by the royal family is also popular. Stuffed Tigers, Tiger heads, Wild Dog, Sloth Bear, Wild Buffalo, Lion, Black Panther, Wild Boar, Black Buck, several other Deer varieties, and a Himalayan Black Bear can be seen here.
The Darbar Hall occupies a double-height space in the middle of the palace, and a raised throne is placed at one end. Apart from the intricate carvings on the walls, the arches of the hall are covered with stained glass paintings depicting scenes from the life of Chhatrapati Shivaji.