January 10th marks the Centenary of the Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Vastu Sangrahalay, formerly known as the Prince of Wales Museum in Mumbai.
This city landmark, which ranks as one of the finest museums in the country, documents the history of India from pre-historic to modern times.
It was founded in the early years of 20th century by prominent citizens of Mumbai (then Bombay), with the help of the then Government of the Bombay Presidency.
It was Sir Pherozeshah Mehta, Sir Ibrahim Rahimtulla and Sir Vithaldas Thackersay who understood the need for a cultural institution in Mumbai to not only showcase, but also educate people about India’s rich cultural heritage.
The Museum building was designed and built by the Scottish architect George Wittet in the Indo- Saracenic style, incorporating elements of other styles of architecture like the Mughal, Maratha and Jain.
The building was completed in 1915, but was used as a war hospital during the First World War (1914) and once again as a major hospital during the Spanish Flu pandemic between 1918-1920.
The Museum, which opened to public on January 10, 1922, was named after King George V, commemorating his visit to India. It was renamed in 1998 after Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, three years after Bombay, officially became Mumbai.
CSMVS Museum houses over 70,000 exhibits categorized into three broad sections : Art, Archaeology and Natural History. The Indus Valley Civilization artefacts, relics of Indian history from the Mauryas, Guptas, Chalukyas and Rashtrakuta period are among the major attractions. Its collection of Indian Miniature Paintings is among the best in the country.
The Museum also houses an interesting collection of Chinese and Japanese porcelain, metal and ivory objects and embroidery. The European oil paintings and Indian arms and armour also form an important part of the collection. A large number of European and East Asian art are gifted by generous donors like Sir Ratanji Tata and Sir Dorabji Tata,
In these 100 years, it is fair to say that the Museum has fulfilled its objective of educating people about our heritage through its acquisitions, display and by providing an overall visitor-friendly experience. The audio guide is particularly useful in knowing details of the displays.
Functioning under the able leadership of Director General Sabyasachi Mukherjee, this museum has become one of the most sought-after institutions for international collaborations and trend-setting projects.
During Covid pandemic, the Museum quickly adapted and went online, providing enriching exprience to its audience.
This certainly is one institution which needs to be supported whole heartedly by everyone. It is indeed, the pride of Mumbai.
Image courtesy : CSMVS
MD/BPost/VI
ON THIS DAY 