Journey through time: Discover India's soul at National Museum in New Delhi
Established with great fanfare on 15 August 1949, this grand institution was born out of the overwhelming success of the 'Exhibition of Indian Art' held in London. The world marvelled at India's rich heritage, and a newly independent nation decided that its treasures deserved a permanent, magnificent home. What began as a temporary display in Rashtrapati Bhawan soon found its way to a purpose-built structure, with Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru himself laying the foundation stone in 1955. The museum stands as a monument to national pride and a deep reverence for a civilization's enduring legacy.
A Tapestry Woven through Time: The Galleries Await
Home to around 200,000 objects—both Indian and international—the museum is a universe unto itself, inviting visitors to explore its many galaxies, each gallery a portal into a unique chapter of time or artistic expression.
The Dawn of Civilization: Harappan Gallery
Imagine cities flourishing over 4,500 years ago, with sophisticated urban planning and intricate craftsmanship. That's the Harappan Gallery. Here, you'll encounter the echoes of the Indus Valley Civilization—one of humanity's earliest and most enigmatic societies. Admire intricate pottery, mysterious seals, and delicate terracotta figurines. And then comes the showstopper: the iconic Dancing Girl—a tiny bronze masterpiece from Mohenjo-daro. Despite its size, it radiates timeless elegance and a hint of ancient rhythm, proving that artistic flair and technical sophistication are far from modern inventions.
The Path of Enlightenment: Buddhist Art Gallery
Step into a realm of serenity in the Buddhist Art Gallery—a journey into the heart of Buddhist philosophy, revealed through breathtaking sculptures and sacred relics. The highlight? The revered relics of Buddha himself, dating to the 5th–4th century BCE, discovered at Piprahwa. As you move through the gallery, witness the evolution of Buddhist art—from symbolic early forms to the first human depictions of the Enlightened One. It's a powerful visual narrative of faith and artistic devotion.
Worlds in Miniature: Miniature Paintings Gallery
Prepare to be captivated by the Miniature Paintings Gallery, home to over 17,000 works that offer a vibrant window into India's past. From the refined elegance of Mughal court scenes to the colourful folk tales of Rajasthan, the poetic landscapes of Pahari schools, and the unique stylings of Deccani art—each delicate brushstroke tells an epic. Scenes from the Mahabharata and Ramayana unfold on canvases no bigger than your hand, showcasing staggering precision and imaginative scope.
A Glimmer of Grandeur: Decorative Arts Gallery
Indulge your senses in the Decorative Arts Gallery, where Indian craftsmanship shines in all its diversity. Discover objects fashioned from jade, ceramic, ivory, metal, and carved wood. These aren't mere household items—they're thrones, ornaments, and ceremonial artifacts that whisper stories of opulent courts and master artisans.
Tracing Riches: Coins and Currency Gallery
Curious about how money evolved in India? The Coins and Currency Gallery offers a journey through the subcontinent's economic history, from the 6th century BCE to the modern era. Each coin is a miniature record of power shifts, technological innovation, and economic trends—a tangible link to the past.
Echoes of Empires: Archaeology Galleries
Travel through India's dynastic tapestry in the Archaeology Galleries—featuring the Maurya, Shunga, Satavahana, Kushana, Gupta, and Medieval periods. Explore shifting artistic styles, divine imagery, and cross-cultural influences—from Greco-Roman elements in Gandhara art to the idealised beauty of Gupta sculptures. This is Indian aesthetics in evolution, masterfully preserved.
And that's only the beginning. The museum also features extensive collections of ancient arms and armour, textiles and costumes, dazzling jewellery, and intriguing Central Asian antiquities. Every corridor offers a new discovery.
Visitor Information
Location:
Janpath, New Delhi – easily accessible and near India Gate
Opening Hours:
Tuesday to Sunday, 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
(Closed on Mondays and national holidays)
Entry Fees:
Indian citizens (Adults): INR 20
Foreign nationals: INR 500
Students (up to Class 12): Free (with valid ID)
Photography Policy:
Handheld cameras are permitted for personal use. Flash photography and videography are not allowed inside the galleries.
Accessibility:
Wheelchair facilities are available. Visitors with specific accessibility needs are encouraged to make prior arrangements.
Public Transport:
The closest metro stations are Central Secretariat and Udyog Bhavan (Yellow Line), both offering convenient access.
More Than a Museum: Programmes and Engagement
The National Museum is not just a place to view the past—it's a dynamic hub of cultural engagement and academic exploration. It hosts regular temporary exhibitions, educational workshops, lectures, and public outreach events. For scholars, a well-stocked library supports in-depth research.
Short on time? Try the 'Museum in 90 Minutes' guided tour, which showcases 25 must-see masterpieces—offering a rich, curated overview of India's artistic and historical legacy.
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Journey through time: Discover India's soul at National Museum in New Delhi
New Delhi – Imagine stepping through a portal that whisks you back thousands of years, then gently brings you forward through epochs of empires, artistry, and everyday life. That's exactly what awaits at the National Museum, New Delhi—a treasure trove pulsating with the stories of India. Nestled on Janpath, near India Gate, this isn't just a building filled with antiquities; it's a living narrative—an epic poem etched in stone, bronze, paint, and fabric. Established with great fanfare on 15 August 1949, this grand institution was born out of the overwhelming success of the 'Exhibition of Indian Art' held in London. The world marvelled at India's rich heritage, and a newly independent nation decided that its treasures deserved a permanent, magnificent home. What began as a temporary display in Rashtrapati Bhawan soon found its way to a purpose-built structure, with Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru himself laying the foundation stone in 1955. The museum stands as a monument to national pride and a deep reverence for a civilization's enduring legacy. A Tapestry Woven through Time: The Galleries Await Home to around 200,000 objects—both Indian and international—the museum is a universe unto itself, inviting visitors to explore its many galaxies, each gallery a portal into a unique chapter of time or artistic expression. The Dawn of Civilization: Harappan Gallery Imagine cities flourishing over 4,500 years ago, with sophisticated urban planning and intricate craftsmanship. That's the Harappan Gallery. Here, you'll encounter the echoes of the Indus Valley Civilization—one of humanity's earliest and most enigmatic societies. Admire intricate pottery, mysterious seals, and delicate terracotta figurines. And then comes the showstopper: the iconic Dancing Girl—a tiny bronze masterpiece from Mohenjo-daro. Despite its size, it radiates timeless elegance and a hint of ancient rhythm, proving that artistic flair and technical sophistication are far from modern inventions. The Path of Enlightenment: Buddhist Art Gallery Step into a realm of serenity in the Buddhist Art Gallery—a journey into the heart of Buddhist philosophy, revealed through breathtaking sculptures and sacred relics. The highlight? The revered relics of Buddha himself, dating to the 5th–4th century BCE, discovered at Piprahwa. As you move through the gallery, witness the evolution of Buddhist art—from symbolic early forms to the first human depictions of the Enlightened One. It's a powerful visual narrative of faith and artistic devotion. Worlds in Miniature: Miniature Paintings Gallery Prepare to be captivated by the Miniature Paintings Gallery, home to over 17,000 works that offer a vibrant window into India's past. From the refined elegance of Mughal court scenes to the colourful folk tales of Rajasthan, the poetic landscapes of Pahari schools, and the unique stylings of Deccani art—each delicate brushstroke tells an epic. Scenes from the Mahabharata and Ramayana unfold on canvases no bigger than your hand, showcasing staggering precision and imaginative scope. A Glimmer of Grandeur: Decorative Arts Gallery Indulge your senses in the Decorative Arts Gallery, where Indian craftsmanship shines in all its diversity. Discover objects fashioned from jade, ceramic, ivory, metal, and carved wood. These aren't mere household items—they're thrones, ornaments, and ceremonial artifacts that whisper stories of opulent courts and master artisans. Tracing Riches: Coins and Currency Gallery Curious about how money evolved in India? The Coins and Currency Gallery offers a journey through the subcontinent's economic history, from the 6th century BCE to the modern era. Each coin is a miniature record of power shifts, technological innovation, and economic trends—a tangible link to the past. Echoes of Empires: Archaeology Galleries Travel through India's dynastic tapestry in the Archaeology Galleries—featuring the Maurya, Shunga, Satavahana, Kushana, Gupta, and Medieval periods. Explore shifting artistic styles, divine imagery, and cross-cultural influences—from Greco-Roman elements in Gandhara art to the idealised beauty of Gupta sculptures. This is Indian aesthetics in evolution, masterfully preserved. And that's only the beginning. The museum also features extensive collections of ancient arms and armour, textiles and costumes, dazzling jewellery, and intriguing Central Asian antiquities. Every corridor offers a new discovery. Visitor Information Location: Janpath, New Delhi – easily accessible and near India Gate Opening Hours: Tuesday to Sunday, 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM (Closed on Mondays and national holidays) Entry Fees: Indian citizens (Adults): INR 20 Foreign nationals: INR 500 Students (up to Class 12): Free (with valid ID) Photography Policy: Handheld cameras are permitted for personal use. Flash photography and videography are not allowed inside the galleries. Accessibility: Wheelchair facilities are available. Visitors with specific accessibility needs are encouraged to make prior arrangements. Public Transport: The closest metro stations are Central Secretariat and Udyog Bhavan (Yellow Line), both offering convenient access. More Than a Museum: Programmes and Engagement The National Museum is not just a place to view the past—it's a dynamic hub of cultural engagement and academic exploration. It hosts regular temporary exhibitions, educational workshops, lectures, and public outreach events. For scholars, a well-stocked library supports in-depth research. Short on time? Try the 'Museum in 90 Minutes' guided tour, which showcases 25 must-see masterpieces—offering a rich, curated overview of India's artistic and historical legacy.
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A number of canvases, I noticed, are circular or oval, celebrating curves and reflecting the sacred geometry of Sufism as well as the celestial orbits of the title. * A version of this article appears in print in the 3 July, 2025 edition of Al-Ahram Weekly Follow us on: Facebook Instagram Whatsapp Short link:
