The National Museum, New Delhi, marked its 64th Foundation Day today with a series of programs centered on the museum’s rich collection and its vital role in preserving India’s cultural heritage. A highlight of the celebrations was the inauguration of a special exhibition in collaboration with ITIHAAS, the History Society, titled “Heritage Unlocked: An Interactive and Educational Experience.”

The exhibition was inaugurated by Joint Secretary, Museums, Ministry of Culture, Shri Sanjay Kaul, in the presence of Prof. B.R. Mani, Director General, National Museum, and Shri Ashish Goyal, Additional Director General.

A Milestone for the National Museum

As one of the foremost custodians of India’s cultural heritage, the National Museum has long stood as a beacon of preservation and education. Officially inaugurated in 1960, its origins trace back to 1946, when the Maurice Gwyer Committee was formed and the first exhibition of Indian art was showcased in London, setting the foundation for what would become this prestigious institution.

On the occasion of its 64th Foundation Day, Shri Sanjay Kaul expressed admiration for the museum's enduring legacy. He highlighted the Ministry of Culture’s ongoing commitment to preserving and conserving India’s cultural heritage, while promoting both tangible and intangible forms of art and culture. Shri Kaul emphasized the Ministry's vital role in creating pathways that nurture and sustain the creative and aesthetic sensibilities of society, ensuring that our cultural expressions remain vibrant and evolving.

He further noted, “Exhibitions such as this are particularly effective in engaging younger audiences. By sparking curiosity and fostering a deep sense of cultural appreciation, we can ensure that the next generation will become true custodians of our artistic legacy. It is through such initiatives that we preserve the relevance of our heritage, ensuring it resonates with future generations.”

Prof. B.R. Mani, Director General of the National Museum, also spoke about the museum’s continued evolution: “We celebrate not only the museum's history today but its ongoing role as a repository of our shared heritage. The museum’s mission continues to expand, engaging a wider audience through innovative educational initiatives and interactive experiences that connect the past with the present.”

An Innovative Exhibition: "Heritage Unlocked"

This exhibition marks a significant milestone for the National Museum, as it represents the first of its kind in India to feature the work of school interns. Through the NM-ITIHAAS Internship Programme, students have contributed to the exhibition, creating learning modules and activities focused on the museum's collections. Conceptualized and executed by the Lecturing and Education Department of the National Museum, the exhibition offers a hands-on, interactive experience designed to engage children and adults alike.

The exhibition is divided into eight distinct sections, featuring activities that explore various facets of India’s artistic and archaeological heritage. Visitors can experience:

• Excavation activities and replica-making sessions based on the Harappan Civilization and Archaeology
• The art and history of Gandhara and Mathura
• Miniature paintings and the indigenous art of North-East India
• TALA-PRAMAN: the ancient art of measurement
• And more!

The exhibition also includes audio guides developed by the interns and a series of creative learning modules that allow visitors to interact with the artifacts in innovative ways.

A Collaborative Effort

The success of Heritage Unlocked is a testament to the collaborative efforts of several stakeholders. From the students and mentors at ITIHAAS to the museum's education team and curators, this exhibition represents a collective vision for fostering cultural appreciation. This initiative highlights the importance of engaging young minds with history and culture, enabling them to become custodians of our rich heritage.

A Commitment to Cultural Education

This exhibition is not only a celebration of the National Museum’s collection but also serves as a valuable teaching tool for educators, students, and visitors. As emphasized by Prof. Mani, museums must continue to create avenues for interpreting and understanding cultural collections. "These collections are not merely historical records; they belong to the public. It is our duty to ensure they remain accessible, relevant, and meaningful to all."

The Heritage Unlocked exhibition is designed to encourage curiosity and foster a deeper connection between the past and the present. It offers a platform for young museum-goers to engage with India’s heritage, ensuring its relevance for future generations.

Exhibition details

Heritage Unlocked: An Interactive and Educational Experience will be on view until 20^th January 2025 at the Ajanta Hall on the first floor of the National Museum, New Delhi. Entry is included with museum tickets.

***

Sunil Kumar Tiwari

(Release ID: 2086318) Visitor Counter : 87