D. R. Khashaba (author)

D. R. Khashaba is an author connected to Rajaram College in Kolhapur, a government institution affiliated with Shivaji University. Established in 1880 by the Maharaja of Kolhapur, it is the oldest college in the city and a significant educational establishment in Maharashtra. Initially affiliated with Mumbai University and later Pune University, it has been part of Shivaji University since its inception in 1962. The college has played a role in the founding of Shivaji University, with its former principal serving as the first Vice-Chancellor. Over the years, Rajaram College has offered a range of undergraduate and postgraduate courses and has been instrumental in educating numerous leaders in politics, science, arts, and civil services. The college campus is extensive, featuring a library with a substantial collection, including rare books, and is a recognized landmark in the Kolhapur area.

Founded in 1880, Rajaram College holds the distinction of being the oldest educational institution in Kolhapur and is a well-regarded college within Maharashtra. Its academic affiliations have evolved, starting with Mumbai University, then Pune University, and finally becoming part of Shivaji University upon its establishment in 1962. The college was instrumental in the formation of Shivaji University, with its principal serving as the first Vice-Chancellor. Rajaram College has historically provided a variety of undergraduate and postgraduate programs, contributing significantly to higher education in the region. Its legacy includes nurturing many prominent figures in public life, including politicians, scientists, writers, and civil servants, underscoring its role in shaping intellectual and leadership talent.

The Rajaram College campus is a notable feature, spanning approximately 75 acres and offering a picturesque environment. It is situated on the outskirts of Kolhapur city, near Shivaji University, and serves as a gathering place for residents for leisure walks. The campus houses thirteen distinct buildings, including an auditorium with a capacity of 2,000 people. A significant asset is the Dr. Balkrishna Library, which boasts a collection of over 125,000 volumes. This library is particularly noted for its inclusion of rare and out-of-print books, suggesting a valuable resource for academic research and historical study. The Maharashtra State also supports a UPSC and MPSC institute within the college campus.

Rajaram College has a distinguished list of alumni who have achieved prominence in various fields. The college has produced notable scientists such as Abhay Ashtekar and Vishnu Vasudev Narlikar, alongside prominent politicians like Yashwantrao Chavan and Basappa Danappa Jatti, who served as President of India. The institution's influence extends to the arts and literature, with alumni including writer Kusumagraj and dramatist Narasimha Chintaman Kelkar. The faculty has also included distinguished individuals, such as H. P. Gandhi, a diatomist, and Vinayaka Krishna Gokak, a recipient of the Gyanpeeth Award. The presence of such accomplished individuals, both past students and teachers, highlights the college's significant impact.