Museums Vital for Preserving Cultural Heritage: Dr Tejas Garge

Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar: Dr Tejas Garge, Director of the State Directorate of Archaeology and Museums, highlighted the vital role museums play in preserving and promoting cultural heritage.

He was speaking at a programme on “Development of Museums in Maharashtra” held at Dr Babasaheb Ambedkar Marathwada University on International Museum Day.

He said museums safeguard history and culture while presenting them to the world in new ways, thereby enriching cultural heritage. The event was jointly organised by the Department of Cultural Affairs, the Directorate of Archaeology and Museums, the Regional Museum Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar, and the Department of History and Ancient Indian Culture.

Explaining the growth and rich tradition of museums in Maharashtra, Dr Garge said the State currently has 14 museums under the Archaeology Department, 40 museums managed by universities and institutions, and 107 private museums displaying paintings, sculptures, and valuable artefacts. He noted that museums are located in cities including Nashik, Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar, Paithan, Sindkhed Raja, Mahur, Sangli and Mumbai.

Dr Garge also said the scope of corporate museums is increasing, creating employment opportunities for the younger generation. Referring to the Bihar Museum model, he announced plans for a central State museum in Mumbai, for which the government has allotted three-and-a-half acres at Bandra-Kurla Complex (BKC).

Dr Geetanjali Borade presided over the programme, while Kamaji Dak conducted the proceedings and Priyadarshan Hatkar delivered the vote of thanks.