Sanskriti Museum of Everyday Art opens at Humayun’s Tomb

The Sanskriti Museum of Everyday Art & Indian Textiles officially opened at the Humayun’s Tomb World Heritage Site Museum in Delhi, showcasing a remarkable collection of over 1,000 artifacts and textiles. This new gallery, inaugurated recently, reflects India’s rich cultural heritage and features items collected over five decades by OP Jain, the founder of the Sanskriti Museums. The museum aims to highlight the living traditions and craftsmanship that define Indian culture, offering visitors an engaging experience through its diverse displays.

The collection includes a variety of everyday objects such as betel nut crackers, children's toys, writing instruments, and kitchen utensils, as well as a wide selection of Indian textiles. Notable items include bandhani from Rajasthan, kani shawls from Kashmir, and phulkaris from Punjab, showcasing the regional diversity of Indian craftsmanship. The artifacts not only demonstrate the aesthetic qualities of these items but also reflect the daily lives and practices of people throughout India's history. The museum is designed to educate visitors about the significance of these items within a cultural context.

Key stakeholders in establishing the museum include the Sanskriti Board of Trustees, which gifted the collection to the Indira Gandhi National Centre for the Arts (IGNCA). The Aga Khan Trust for Culture (AKTC) managed the display design and execution, collaborating in the management of the exhibition space. The curation follows a life-cycle approach, allowing visitors to explore artifacts related to childhood, education, work, and domestic life. This thoughtful arrangement emphasizes the importance of these items in shaping cultural identity and understanding the evolution of craftsmanship over time.

The museum also highlights the broader economic and social benefits of preserving traditional craftsmanship. By showcasing handcrafted items, it underscores the skills and creativity of artisans, many of whom face challenges in a modern market dominated by mass production. This initiative fosters appreciation for handmade products, encouraging visitors to value the time and effort invested in creating these unique items. Additionally, the museum serves as a platform for promoting sustainable practices in the textile industry, drawing attention to the need for safeguarding traditional techniques.

As the Sanskriti Museum continues to attract visitors, it aims to expand its offerings and educational programs. Future milestones include hosting workshops, talks, and exhibitions that further explore themes of craftsmanship and cultural heritage. The museum's mission aligns with global efforts to preserve intangible cultural heritage and promote awareness of traditional art forms. By celebrating the art of everyday life, the Sanskriti Museum contributes to a deeper understanding of India’s diverse cultural landscape and its significance in a global context.