Indian Museum, Kolkata

Indian Museum, Kolkata

The Indian Museum, located in Kolkata (formerly known as Calcutta), is one of the oldest and largest museums in India. It was established in 1814 and is considered the ninth oldest museum in the world. The museum is situated on Chowringhee Road and is a significant cultural institution in Kolkata, known for its vast collection of artifacts, artworks, and archaeological specimens.

Here are some key facts about the Indian Museum:

History

The Indian Museum was founded by the Asiatic Society of Bengal, with the primary goal of promoting the study of the natural history, arts, and culture of India. The foundation stone was laid by the then Governor-General of India, Lord Hastings, on February 2, 1814.

Architecture

The museum building is an architectural masterpiece, blending classical Greek style with Indian architectural elements. It has a colonnaded facade with Ionic and Corinthian columns, and its main entrance is adorned with an imposing portico.

Collections

The Indian Museum houses an extensive collection of artifacts from various disciplines, including archaeology, anthropology, geology, zoology, and botany. Its collection comprises over 100,000 objects, including rare sculptures, paintings, coins, fossils, and ethnographic specimens.

Galleries

The museum has several galleries that showcase different aspects of India’s cultural heritage. Some of the notable galleries include the Archaeology Gallery, Art Gallery, Anthropology Gallery, Coins Gallery, and Geological Gallery.

Highlights

The Indian Museum is renowned for its remarkable collections, including the fossil of the extinct bird-like dinosaur, Ichthyornis, the Ashoka Pillar from Sarnath, Egyptian mummies, Buddhist and Gandhara sculptures, and an extensive collection of Indian coins.

Cultural and Educational Activities

The museum regularly organizes exhibitions, seminars, workshops, and cultural programs to promote art, culture, and education. It also has a library and a conservation laboratory.

Centenary Building

In 2014, the Indian Museum celebrated its bicentennial anniversary and inaugurated a new wing known as the Centenary Building. This modern extension houses additional exhibition spaces, a conservation laboratory, and facilities for visitors.

The Indian Museum in Kolkata is an important cultural institution that provides valuable insights into India’s rich history, art, and heritage. It attracts numerous visitors, scholars, and researchers interested in exploring the diverse collections and exhibitions it offers.

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Information about Indian Museum

Location: 27, Jawaharlal Nehru Rd, Fire Brigade Head Quarter, New Market Area, Dharmatala, Taltala, Kolkata, West Bengal 700016

Price: For Adults INR 50/- and Children above 5 yrs INR 20/-

Timing: 10 am to 5 pm (Monday Closed and All National Holidays)

Best Time to Visit: December to February

Things to do at Indian Museum

Here are some things you can do at the Indian Museum:

• Explore the galleries: The museum has several galleries dedicated to different aspects of Indian history, archaeology, art, and culture. Take your time to explore these galleries and learn about the rich heritage of India.

• Admire the Egyptian mummy: One of the highlights of the Indian Museum is its collection of an Egyptian mummy. You can see the mummy and learn about ancient Egyptian culture and burial practices.

• Marvel at the fossils: The museum has an impressive collection of fossils, including dinosaur eggs, skeletons, and fossils from various geological periods. It’s a great opportunity to learn about India’s prehistoric past.

• Discover ancient artifacts: The museum houses an extensive collection of ancient artifacts, including sculptures, pottery, coins, and inscriptions. These artifacts provide insights into the ancient civilizations that thrived in different parts of India.

• Visit the coin gallery: The Indian Museum has a dedicated gallery showcasing a wide range of ancient coins, including those from the Mauryan, Gupta, and Mughal periods. It’s a fascinating exhibit for numismatics enthusiasts.

• Learn about Indian art: The museum’s art gallery features a diverse collection of paintings, including miniature paintings from Rajasthan, Bengal, and the Mughal era. You can also explore sculptures and other art forms from different regions of India.

• Attend special exhibitions: The Indian Museum often hosts special exhibitions on various themes and topics. Check their schedule to see if there are any ongoing exhibitions during your visit.

• Visit the library: The museum has a library that houses a vast collection of books, manuscripts, and rare documents related to Indian history, art, and culture. If you’re a researcher or a history enthusiast, you can explore the library’s resources.

• Enjoy the natural history section: The museum has a section dedicated to natural history, where you can see preserved specimens of animals, birds, insects, and plants. It provides an opportunity to learn about India’s diverse flora and fauna.

• Attend lectures and workshops: The Indian Museum regularly organizes lectures, workshops, and interactive sessions on various topics. Check their schedule to see if there are any events that interest you.

Remember to check the museum’s timings and any entry requirements before your visit to ensure a smooth experience.