Two years ago, when I was working on an assignment, required a visit to Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Vastu Sangrahalaya also known as Prince of Wales museum. To my much dismay, this century old property was closed down for restoration and it was unknown when it would be completed and opened again for public.
Yesterday, I was stunned by the result of restoration which was done flawlessly as I was taking a stroll across South Mumbai and thought to enter one of these UNESCO sites of Mumbai.
For the locals, the museum allows you to enter by paying Rs.150/- along with the complimentary mobile pass. But if you are a student, you are lucky enough to enter this property in Rs. 35/- by providing your college/university ID. However, the charge for foreigners is Rs.700/-. The museum also offers concession on various other categories of travelers subject to provision of proofs. You can also rent an audio guide that is available in Marathi, English, Hindi, Japanese, French, German and Spanish.
The exploration area is divided into three floors - ground, first and second. The premises being built in Saracenic architecture i.e the combination of Hindu and Islamic elements, proudly showcases the rich artefacts. After the security check, you come across the ground floor that houses galleries like sculpture which is recommended for iconography enthusiasts, natural history section and inscriptions for them who are immensely interested in ancient languages. If you feel thirsty, drinking water is available free of cost and cold cafe corner near the natural history section. There are seating arrangements as well in case you want to take a break from exploration. Also, there is a museum shop to buy affordable souvenirs!
King Sala fight with a lion, Karnataka, 1070 C.E
Buddha, Odhisha, 12th century C.E.
The 11th Ashokan edict, Maharashtra, 3rd century C.E. in Mauryan Brahmi script
Harihar, Maharashtra, 12th century C.E.
The very awaited "Mummy" hailing from 380-342 B.C. rests on the first floor along with other small yet interesting Egyptian artefacts of Osiris, Isis, Horus etc. Additionally, you marvel at the weapons, swords and armors right from stone age to medieval age along with many Harappan, Mohenjodaro and Dholavira replicas and their interesting stories.
Mummy and Coffin, 380-342 B.C.
Inamgaon burial, 12th century B.C. Maharashtra where a child's corpse was placed in 2 urns of grey ware with head facing north and legs facing south.
As you move to the last and second floor, you get to admire the fine and elegant works of Indian metal and art gallery, that indicates the diversity and beauty of Indian arts. Check out the Buddhist influences on Indian and Tibetan culture and mesmerizing idols at the Himalayan Art Gallery. Do not miss to check out the prints and drawings gallery and Indian Miniature paintings if art fascinates you! Unfortunately, the Chinese and Japanese Art Gallery has been closed recently, but you can still find the masterpieces of this Oriental culture donated by Tata family in the corners of museum.
Metalware, Repousse and Fret work, 20th century B.C.
Betal leaf box, 19th century B.C.
Maitreya Buddha inside Gompa (Buddhist altar), Ladakh
Ushnishanijaya, the goddess of longevity, 17th century, Nepal
Japanese bronze incense burner
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