Union Minister Gajendra Singh Shekhawat Unveils Humayun’s Tomb World Heritage Site Museum

Tags: National News

Union Minister of Culture and Tourism, Shri Gajendra Singh Shekhawat, inaugurated the Humayun’s Tomb World Heritage Site Museum in New Delhi on July 29, 2024.

An Overview of the News

• The inauguration was attended by Prince Rahim Aga Khan, dignitaries from the Ministry of Culture, the Archaeological Survey of India, and other notable guests.

Museum Details:

• Size: 100,000 square feet

• Design: Underground, inspired by ancient 'Baolis' (stepped wells)

• Purpose: To enhance understanding of the World Heritage Site and provide cultural context.

Collaborators:

• Archaeological Survey of India (ASI)

• Aga Khan Trust for Culture (AKTC)

Exhibits:

• Over 500 artefacts including Mughal miniatures, manuscripts, coins, astrolabes, and architectural elements from Humayun’s Mausoleum.

• Architectural models and historical artefacts illustrating 700 years of history.

Key Galleries:

• ‘Where the Emperor Rests’: Focuses on Humayun’s Mausoleum and Emperor Humayun’s life.

• ‘Icons of a Sacred Landscape’: Highlights cultural figures like Hazrat Nizamuddin Auliya, Amir Khusrau, Rahim, and Dara Shukoh.

Visitor Experience:

• Stone ramps and a 40-feet wide 3D illustration at the entrance.

• Includes a map showing Delhi’s seven cities and stories of dynasties.

Funding:

• Total cost: Rs 250 Crore

• Initial grant: Rs 49 Crore from the Ministry of Tourism, Government of India.

• Additional funding from Aga Khan Trust for Culture, Havells India, US Ambassadors Fund for Cultural Preservation, Tata Trusts, and others.

Management:

• Managed by AKTC for 10 years, in collaboration with ASI.

• Expected to increase visitor engagement, especially for school children.