History of Indian Museum, Kolkata

The Indian Museum’s story begins in 1814 when it was founded by the Asiatic Society of Bengal. Even though the idea of establishing a museum was proposed by the members back in 1796, it took until 1808 for the society to establish their own building on Park Street. After another 6 years, Nathaniel Wallich, a botanist from Denmark wrote a letter to the society highlighting the importance of having a museum. Soon after its establishment, efforts began to collect interesting artifacts and objects from various regions of the nation. Many people, both Europeans and Indians, contributed by donating valuable items from their own collections.

In 1867, they began building the construction that stands today on Chowringhee Road. The architecture of the current building we see today was designed by the famous architect W.L. Grandville, who also designed the Calcutta High Court and the General Post Office. In 1878, the Indian Museum’s exhibits were finally moved to its present building. Public access to the museum started on April 1st, 1878 with only two galleries ready. Over the years, the museum expanded its capacity by adding several other galleries.

Collections and Galleries at Indian Museum, Kolkata

This iconic institution offers visitors an unparalleled opportunity to explore over 30+ galleries filled with rare artifacts, art, and natural history specimens. Each piece tells a story, inviting you to connect with the people, cultures, and events that shaped the nation.

Bharhut Gallery: You can see amazing red stone remnants of Bharhut Stupa, excavated in 1873.

Birds Gallery: Showcases a variety of birds and how they interact with their habitat.

Botanical Gallery: Exhibition of colonial accumulation and organization of ‘economic botany’ encased in Victorian-era glass vitrines.

Bronze Gallery: Metal image repository ranging from 8th-14th century CE.

Coin Gallery: Presents a collection of more than 50,000 coins from different regions of South Asia.

Insect gallery: Home to a wide variety of insects and invertebrates, the gallery is a treasure trove of knowledge.

Mammal Gallery: Display of bones and fossils of various animals found across South Asia.

Mask Gallery: Collection of varied decorative masks made using different materials and techniques.

Human Evolution Gallery: Showcases human evolution of both the physical and cultural kind.

Egypt Gallery: The mummy housed in the Indian Museum is among the 6 Egyptian mummies in the country. It was a gift to the Asiatic Society in 1834 by a British officer by the name of Lieutenant EC Archbold.

In addition to these, the museum has several other galleries such as Invertebrate Fossils Gallery, Paintings Gallery, Gandhara Gallery, Long Archaeology Gallery, Textile Gallery, Musical Instrument Gallery, Human Evolution Gallery, Pre and Proto-Historic Gallery, Mughal Painting Gallery, Cultural Anthropology Gallery, Fish Gallery, Gallery of Decorative Art, Rocks and Minerals Gallery, Amphibia and Reptilia Gallery, Terracotta and Minor Arts Gallery, and Siwalik Gallery, to mention a few.

Treasures of the Indian Museum, Kolkata

Visitors can explore various exhibits throughout the galleries, including remarkable sculptures from two thousand years ago, Egyptian mummies, artifacts from the ancient Indus Valley civilisation of Harappa and Mohenjo-Daro, preserved human embryos, hanging whale skeletons and a collection of approximately 37 different kinds of opium in its commercial botany gallery. You’ll also find some curious displays, such as 7kg of rings and bangles that were discovered inside a huge crocodile’s stomach. The architectural grandeur of the museum building itself adds to the experience, with its colonial-era charm and spacious halls that inspire a sense of awe.

Note: Please note that some of the galleries might be closed at the time of your visit. No bags are allowed inside. You can leave your hand carriages at the entrance. Try not to visit on Sundays or public holidays, as they are often very crowded.

You can follow the link https://indianmuseumkolkata.org to stay up-to-date.

Whether you’re a curious traveller, a history lover, or simply looking for a piece of India’s past, the Indian Museum is a spot you’ll really enjoy. You’ll get hooked, and walk out with some new knowledge.ucate.

I hope this blog post is helpful! Let me know if you have any other questions.

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Historical Significance

Lord Curzon, who was the viceroy of India at the time, Commissioned the construction of this lavish white marble building to honor Queen Victoria’s 25 years of rule over India. Its architecture is very similar to that of the Victoria Memorial in London. The foundation stone was laid by the Prince of Wales (later King George V) on January 4, 1906, symbolizing India’s connection to British rule and opened to the public on December 28, 1921. The construction of the Victoria Memorial was financed through public donations from within India.

Architecture and Design

William Emerson, who was the president of the Royal Institute of British Architects, designed the Victoria Memorial. This 184 feet structure is built using white Makrana marble, which was transported from Jodhpur, Rajasthan. Sir David Prain, a botanist, and Lord Redesdale collaborated on the design of the extensive 64 acres gardens that surround the monument.

Galleries

Containing more than 25 galleries, such as the Royal Gallery, the Sculpture Gallery, the National Leaders Gallery, the Portrait Gallery, the Central Hall and the Calcutta Gallery, and others, the Victoria Memorial boasts a valuable collection of works of rare and old books. Stepping inside, you’re transported to another era, surrounded by historical artifacts and stunning displays. The monument truly houses a remarkable and noteworthy collection, including paintings, weapons, textiles and stamps. Its soaring domes, intricate carvings, and expansive lawns create a truly unforgettable experience.

Exhibitions

A variety of enriching and informative exhibitions take place here from time to time, along with many other events such as illustrated talks and celebrations of important days.

Timings and Entry

Opening Hours: Tuesday to Sunday, 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM (Closed Mondays and national holidays)

Tickets: Tickets can be purchased online at the official website https://victoriamemorial-cal.org or the museum ticket counter. For those not interested in visiting the galleries, there is a “garden-only” ticket option available. The details can be found at the ticket counter.
Free admission for school children in uniform with a valid ID, Differently-abled visitors with a U.D.I.D Card, Military personnel, and Pensioners of the aforementioned services.

Light & Sound Show: During October to June, visitors can experience a light and sound show called Son-et-Lumiere at the Victoria Memorial. Another show titled Pride & Glory- the Story of Calcutta, which was designed as a venture with the Bengal Chamber of Commerce, is also currently held here in both Bengali and English.

You can follow the link http://www.victoriamemorial-cal.org to stay up-to-date with the latest events and happenings.

Honestly, whether history’s your thing or you simply admire its architectural beauty, you won’t forget the Victoria Memorial anytime soon.

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