By Neha Kirpal
In a historic move, the Government of India has approved the establishment of the first-ever city museum in Bhopal, which will open to the public in December 2025.The proposed Bhopal City Museum at the left wing of Moti Mahal is a one-of-its-kind project to bring forth a Tourist Interpretation Centre for heritage and culture lovers.
With a budget of Rs 22 crores, the highly anticipated museum with 11 galleries will focus on the rich history of the state and its capital, covering its historical and geographical context and the formation of Bhopal in particular.
Visitors can expect to be dazzled by a collection of prehistoric rock paintings, stone tools, archaeological finds, stamps, attires of Bhopal’s kings and queens, ancient sculptures, temple remains and exquisite art from the Bhopal Nawab period. Modern, cutting-edge technology will be utilised to create engaging and interactive exhibits for all age groups.
“Imagine iconic paintings and archival photos from the royal court combined with a life-sized recreation of the space itself. Hyper-realistic mannequins will depict the Nawabs, Begums and other attendees, giving one a glimpse into a real durbar assembly,” elaborated Sheo Shekhar Shukla, Principal Secretary, Madhya Pradesh Tourism and Managing Director, Madhya Pradesh Tourism Board.
The right wing of the museum will house the Mahapratapi Raja Bhoj Sangrahalaya, a comprehensive museum designed by IIT Indore, based on the life and works of King Raja Bhoj.
Further, seven houses of the state’s seven major tribes – Gond, Bhil, Baiga, Korku, Bhairiya, Sahariya and Kol – have been built in Bhopal’s Tribal Museum to understand the lifestyle of the tribal community.
“Tribal families will stay for three to six months in these residences constructed by them, with walls made by plastering mud on bamboo sacks, the idol of Bada Dev outside the house, a mill of mud and stone in the house, storage sheds, cots, items of daily use and kitchen,” added Shukla.
The vision of this initiative is to end the myths and beliefs regarding tribal society. From 6th June onwards, visitors have an opportunity to meet and interact with these tribes at the museum.
Madhya Pradesh is planning to establish various theme-based museums at relevant heritage and cultural destinations in the state. A geological park at Lametaghat Bhedaghat near Jabalpur will showcase the region’s geological heritage with permanent displays of rocks, fossils and minerals.
The Rock Art Eco Park in Bhimbetka will share the cultural heritage of the Bhimbetka rock shelters. A museum of music housed in the historic Moti Mahal in Gwalior, will celebrate the city’s rich musical heritage.
The Krantiveer Tatya Tope Memorial Museum in Shivpuri will offer an immersive journey into the life of the freedom fighter. The Diamond Museum at Yadvendra Club in Panna will highlight the region’s historical significance as a diamond capital.
