“संग्रह बहुत अच्छा है” or “the collection is very good.” Mahatma Gandhi himself said these words after visiting Bharat Kala Bhavan. This university museum is located within the Banaras Hindu University. It stands as one of Varanasi’s important touristic attractions.
Bharat Kala Bhavan’s story began with the Bharatiya Lalit Kala Parishad in 1920. It was first housed in a wing in Godowlia, Varanasi. The museum moved several times before finding its permanent home here. Jawaharlal Nehru laid the foundation for this building in 1950. Finally, in 1962, Bharat Kala Bhavan opened in its current location.
Imagine stepping inside Bharat Kala Bhavan. You are surrounded by a treasure trove of Indian art and culture. The museum boasts over 100,000 items. These holdings include archaeological materials and literary works. There are paintings and textiles. You’ll also find decorative art and personal collections. Indian philately and archival materials add to the richness.
The museum’s fame rests on its archaeological materials. Its miniature paintings are priceless. University students visit. Alumni, research scholars, and teachers come here too.
Eleven galleries showcase India’s past. The Archaeological section displays ancient artifacts. The Banaras section highlights local art. The Painting gallery features Mughal miniatures. Textiles and decorative arts also have their place. Don’t miss the Alice Boner Gallery. It celebrates Alice Boner’s birth centenary.
Look for coins from ancient times to the present. See coins of Samudragupta. Admire Chandragupta II’s coins. Find Kumargupta’s Karttikeya type. Spot Emperor Jehangir’s coin. It features portraits and zodiac symbols.
The main hall holds a figure of Lord Krishna lifting Govardana. Rare images reveal the Krishna cult’s presence in Kashi. These images date back to the 15th and 16th centuries. They show the Gupta period.
Bharat Kala Bhavan embraces modernity too. It uses solar energy for its light and sound system. Modern showcases and digital kiosks preserve artifacts. Climate control cabinets protect against rain, moisture, and sunlight.
Rai Krishnadasa played a vital role in Bharat Kala Bhavan’s development. He dedicated his life to collecting artworks. Rabindranath Tagore served as the first honorary chairman.
Remember Mahatma Gandhi’s words as you explore Bharat Kala Bhavan. “The collection is very good.” Indeed, it’s a captivating journey through India’s history and culture.