NATIONAL MUSEUM

Name - Tisha Ujjainwal

Roll no. - 2022/0452
Dept - BA History (H)
Paper - SEC Museum and Museology
Semester - 3

Introduction
The National Museum in New Delhi is one of the largest and most comprehensive museums in India. As the premier
institution of its kind in the country, the National Museum plays a pivotal role in preserving, exhibiting, and educating the
public about India's rich history and cultural evolution. This project report aims to provide an in-depth exploration of the
National Museum, covering its history, collections, educational initiatives, and cultural impact. The museum showcases a
vast collection of artefacts, artworks, and archaeological finds that span over 5,000 years of Indian history.
The inception of the National Museum can be traced back to the vision of Jawaharlal Nehru, India's first Prime Minister,
who sought to establish an institution that would serve as a custodian of the nation's artistic and historical treasures. The
museum was formally inaugurated on August 15, 1949, coinciding with India's independence, with the primary goal of
showcasing the cultural diversity and historical legacy of the country.
Housed in the majestic building at Janpath, the National Museum is an architectural marvel that seamlessly combines
classical and modern design elements. The structure, designed by the renowned architect Ganesh Das, reflects India's
architectural heritage while providing a fitting backdrop for the extensive collections within. The museum's layout is
organized thematically, allowing visitors to embark on a chronological and thematic journey through India's history.

(Building Architecture of National Museum)

Collections and Galleries

The National Museum houses various galleries that explore different aspects of Indian art, archaeology, and cultural
heritage. Some of the key galleries include the Harappan Gallery, which features artefacts from the ancient Indus Valley
Civilization, the Maurya and Shunga Gallery, the Gupta and Post-Gupta Gallery, the Bronze Gallery, the Medieval Gallery,
the Decorative Arts Gallery, and the Indian Miniature Paintings Gallery. These galleries display a wide range of artefacts,
including sculptures, paintings, textiles, coins, jewellery, weapons, and manuscripts.
One of the notable collections is the "Arms and Armors" gallery, which showcases a wide range of Indian weapons,
including bows, daggers, shields, helmets, and swords. Some highlights include the personal sword of Emperor Aurangzeb
and the battle-axe of Nadir Shah. The museum's textile and decorative arts collections, including the famed Pashupati
seal, provide insights into the craftsmanship and artistic achievements of various regions and eras.
Another important collection is the "Jewellery" section, which features a variety of exquisite jewellery pieces from
different regions of India. The collection includes necklaces, earrings, bracelets, and other adornments made from
precious metals and gemstones.
The museum also houses a collection of manuscripts, which includes ancient texts, religious scriptures, and historical
documents. Divided into various departments such as archaeology, numismatics, decorative arts, and more, the
collections offer a comprehensive view of the country's cultural evolution. From Harappan artefacts to medieval
sculptures and Mughal paintings, the museum's holdings showcase the diversity and richness of India's heritage.
These manuscripts provide valuable insights into the cultural and intellectual heritage of India.
In addition to the permanent collections, the National Museum regularly hosts special exhibitions. These exhibitions cover
a wide range of topics and showcase artefacts from various periods and regions. Some past exhibitions have focused on
textiles, while others have explored themes such as Indian art, history, and culture.

Objectives and Functions

The National Museum is dedicated to the preservation, exhibition, and interpretation of the heritage and culture of India.
It aims to safeguard and showcase valuable artefacts, artworks, and archaeological finds that reflect the rich history and
cultural diversity of the country.
The museum actively acquires and adds to its collection of artefacts, artworks, and cultural objects. It seeks to acquire
significant pieces that represent various periods, styles, and regions of India's history, ensuring the long-term preservation
of these cultural treasures.
The National Museum plays a vital role in conducting research, documentation, and scholarly activities related to Indian
art, culture, and history. It engages in the study and documentation of artefacts, collaborates with scholars, experts, and
institutions, and contributes to the advancement of knowledge in the field.
The museum is committed to promoting public awareness, understanding, and appreciation of Indian art and culture. It
offers educational programs, workshops, lectures, and guided tours to students, scholars, and the general public. These
initiatives aim to foster a deeper understanding of India's cultural heritage and artistic traditions.
In addition to its permanent galleries, the National Museum hosts temporary exhibitions on various themes and topics.
These exhibitions provide an opportunity to showcase unique artefacts, explore specific aspects of Indian culture, and
facilitate cultural exchange by collaborating with other museums and institutions.
The museum prioritizes the conservation and restoration of its collection. It has a dedicated conservation laboratory
where experts employ scientific methods and techniques to preserve and restore delicate artefacts. This ensures the
long-term safeguarding of the cultural heritage under its care.

Cultural Impact
The National Museum holds a significant place in India's cultural landscape, contributing to the nation's soft power and
global standing. Its role in promoting cultural tourism and fostering a sense of pride and identity is paramount. The
museum serves as a bridge between the past and the present, facilitating a dialogue between different generations and
communities. It is actively engaged in cultural exchange and collaboration with other museums, institutions, and
countries. It participates in international exhibitions, loans artefacts for display in foreign museums, and organizes
collaborative projects to promote cross-cultural understanding and exchange.

Challenges and Future Prospects

While the National Museum has made significant strides, it faces challenges such as the need for modernization,
digitization of collections, and the expansion of exhibition spaces. Collaborations with international institutions increase
public engagement, and leveraging technology can enhance the museum's reach and impact.
The museum serves as a major tourist attraction, drawing visitors from around the world to explore India's cultural
heritage. It contributes to promoting tourism by showcasing the richness and diversity of Indian art and culture, thereby
supporting the growth of the tourism industry.
The National Museum in New Delhi is likely to be vacated by the end of this year as part of the Central Vista re-
development project. The plan is to search for a new space where the collections can be safely and properly shifted. The
proposed Yuge Yugeen Bharat National Museum, located in the North Block and South Block of the Raisina Hill complex,
will eventually house these collections. However, until the new museum space is ready, the collections will have to be
relocated somewhere else. If a suitable space is not found, the museum may have to shut down temporarily. Currently,
only about 10% of the objects are on display, while the rest are in storage.

Conclusion
The National Museum in New Delhi stands as a testament to India's rich and diverse cultural heritage. Through its vast
collection of artefacts and artworks, it offers visitors a glimpse into the history and artistic traditions of the country. The
museum's objectives of preservation, exhibition, education, and research ensure that India's cultural treasures are
safeguarded and made accessible to the public. With its extensive galleries, temporary exhibitions, and outreach
initiatives, the National Museum continues to play a pivotal role in promoting cultural awareness, appreciation, and
understanding.