Glancing around, notice how the eyes of thousands of dolls seem to follow you. This is Shanker’s International Doll Museum. It is a world of wonder and cultural exchange. Let’s step inside.
Shanker’s International Doll Museum in Delhi is a vibrant testament to the vision of K Shankar Pillai. He was a political cartoonist. He was also a passionate collector of dolls. The museum was established in 1965. It has grown into a treasure trove of global cultures.
Our story begins with a simple gift. A Hungarian diplomat gifted Shankar Pillai a doll. This sparked his passion for collecting. He gathered dolls from all over the world. His collection quickly grew to 500 dolls.
Shankar showcased his dolls in exhibitions. One exhibition caught the eye of Indira Gandhi. She and her father, Jawaharlal Nehru, were fascinated. Together, they helped Shankar establish the museum.
Today, Shanker’s International Doll Museum houses over 6,500 dolls. They come from 85 countries. The museum is divided into two sections. One side features dolls from the Middle East, Asia, India, and Africa. The other showcases dolls from Europe, the USA, New Zealand, and Australia.
Look closely at the Indian dolls. There are 150 types. They represent the diverse cultures and traditions of India. You’ll see dolls in sarees and traditional wedding attire. They show the rich heritage of the nation.
Don’t miss the international dolls. The Kabuki and Samurai dolls from Japan are popular. The Queen’s collections from the UK are also a highlight. Marvel at the Maypole dance replica dolls from Hungary. The Orchestra of women from Thailand is equally captivating.
The dolls aren’t just for show. There is a workshop attached to the museum. Here, artisans create Indian dolls. These dolls are often exchanged for gifts from abroad. They are also sold to collectors.
Interestingly, there’s even a clinic for sick dolls. If a doll gets damaged, it’s sent here for repair. It shows the care and dedication that goes into preserving these treasures.
Shanker’s International Doll Museum has received international recognition. It won the Golden Peacock Feather at the Dolls Biennale in Poland in 1980. This award highlights the museum’s significance in the world of dolls.
The museum’s founder, K Shankar Pillai, was a remarkable man. He established the Children’s Book Trust in 1957. This promoted children’s education. He was honored with the Padma Vibhushan in 1976. This recognized his contributions to cartooning and children’s literature.
Shanker’s International Doll Museum is conveniently located near Connaught Place. It is easily accessible by metro, bus, or taxi. The entry fee is nominal. This makes it an affordable and enriching experience for all.
Photography is restricted inside. This protects the delicate exhibits. Plan to spend one to two hours here. You’ll need time to fully appreciate the collection.
Shanker’s International Doll Museum offers a unique glimpse into global cultures. It celebrates the craftsmanship and diversity of dolls. It is a place where childhood dreams come to life. It is a reminder of the beauty and richness of our world.
As our tour concludes, remember the story of Shankar Pillai. Remember his passion for dolls. Remember his vision to create a museum for all to enjoy. The dolls will continue to stand here. They will continue to inspire visitors for generations to come.