The Raja Dinkar Kelkar Museum in Pune, Maharashtra, India, is a remarkable repository of Indian art and culture. The museum houses over 20,000 artifacts, including exquisite paintings, sculptures, textiles, and musical instruments, collected by the late Dr. Dinkar G. Kelkar. In this article, we will take a virtual tour of the museum and explore its rich history, architecture, and collections.
History and Architecture of the Museum
The Raja Dinkar Kelkar Museum was established in 1962 by Dr. Dinkar G. Kelkar, a prominent collector and connoisseur of Indian art and culture. Dr. Kelkar’s vision was to create a museum that would showcase the rich diversity and heritage of India to future generations. He spent over three decades collecting rare and unique artifacts from all over the country, and the museum was inaugurated in 1969.
The museum’s building is a beautiful blend of traditional and modern architecture. The exterior is designed in the style of a Rajasthani haveli or mansion, with intricate carvings and balconies. The interior is a mix of contemporary and classical styles, with spacious galleries and halls that provide a perfect setting for the exhibits.
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Collections and Exhibits
The Raja Dinkar Kelkar Museum is home to an extensive collection of artifacts that span over 2,500 years of Indian history and culture. The exhibits are arranged thematically and chronologically, providing visitors with a fascinating journey through India’s rich past.
Sculptures and Paintings
The museum’s sculpture gallery is one of its most impressive exhibits, showcasing over 2,000 sculptures in a variety of styles and materials. The sculptures range from the ancient Indus Valley Civilization to the modern era, and include masterpieces in stone, bronze, and wood.
The painting gallery houses an impressive collection of over 500 paintings, including works by renowned Indian artists such as Raja Ravi Varma and Abanindranath Tagore. The paintings depict a range of themes, from mythological stories to everyday life.
Textiles and Jewelry
The museum’s textile and costume gallery is a visual treat, with a stunning collection of over 2,000 pieces of textiles and costumes from different regions of India. The collection includes intricate silk saris, embroidered shawls, and colorful turbans.
The jewelry gallery showcases over 1,000 pieces of traditional Indian jewelry, including necklaces, earrings, and bangles. The jewelry is made from a variety of materials, including gold, silver, and precious stones.
Musical Instruments
The museum’s musical instrument gallery is a unique exhibit, showcasing over 1,500 musical instruments from all over India. The collection includes instruments such as the sitar, tabla, and veena, as well as rare and unusual instruments like the gopichand and ektara.
Conclusion
The Raja Dinkar Kelkar Museum in Pune is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in Indian art and culture. The museum’s impressive collections, stunning architecture, and rich history make it a fascinating place to explore. Whether you are a seasoned art enthusiast or a curious traveler, the museum offers a glimpse into India’s rich and diverse heritage.
FAQs
- What is the entry fee for the Raja Dinkar Kelkar Museum?
- The entry fee for adults is INR 50, and for children, it is INR 10.
- What are the museum’s opening hours?
- The museum is open from 10:00 am to 5:30 pm every day, except for Mondays and public holidays.
- Is photography allowed inside the museum?
- Photography is not allowed inside the museum to protect the artifacts.
- Can we buy souvenirs at the museum?
- Yes, the museum has a souvenir shop that sells a variety of items, including books, postcards, and handicrafts.
- Are guided tours available at the museum?
- Yes, the museum offers guided tours for visitors who want to learn more about the collections and exhibits.