Manipur Museum carves out niche for preserving cultural history
Imphal: Manipur State Museum has carved out a niche for itself in preserving the cultural history of Manipur, to which a rich collections of Manipuri culture, archaeology, ethnology, ancient coins, and manuscripts are put on display.
The Museum currently boasts eight indoor and outdoor galleries, including the Archaeological Gallery, Jalan's Gallery, Art Gallery, Ethnological Gallery, Musical Instrument Gallery, and Hiyang Hiren (royal boat).
Governor of Manipur, Ajay Kumar Bhalla, accompanied by the First Lady of the State, graced the 56th Foundation Day celebration of the Manipur State Museum at its premises in Imphal on Tuesday.
In his address, the Governor stated that the Museum features a rich collection of Manipuri culture, including a 78-foot-long royal boat (Hiyang Hiren), tribal ornaments, textiles, agricultural and domestic implements, coins, paintings, manuscripts, and artifacts from natural history, ethnology, and archaeology. The galleries also showcase Buddha relics, polo equipment, and traditional costumes.
Earlier, the Governor released a book titled “Hiyang Hiren (royal boat) of Churachand Maharaja”, authored by. K. Sobita Devi, retired Director of Art and Culture, Manipur, inaugurated an exhibition showcasing photographs of Hiyang Hiren, along with valuable artifacts, including gold and silver ornaments.
Inaugurated by the then Prime Minister Indira Gandhi on September 23, 1969, the Museum has experienced the test of time, showcasing the rich history and culture of Manipur.
Located in the heart of Imphal city, the Museum has been a testament to the State's heritage, housing rare artifacts and relics that highlight its historical facts and accounts, from early to modern times.
The Museum also illustrates the harmonious coexistence of different communities in the State, with various relics and antiquities related to their cultures and traditions on display.
The event was attended by Chief Secretary Shri P.K. Goel, H Gyan Prakash, Commissioner Art and Culture, senior officers, scholars, distinguished guests, students, and members of the museum fraternity.