- EURASIAREVIEW.COM - A la une - 16/Jul 23:41

Enduring Legacy Of Museum Society Of Mumbai – Analysis

Celebrating 60 years of promoting knowledge, culture and education with the Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Vastu Sangrahalaya On 29 May 2025 it was a celebration of sixty years of the founding of Museum Society of Mumbai; 60 eventful years which have witnessed a vibrant growth of the 76-year-old Republic of India and, at the same time, it was six decades of being a part of the 101-year-old Prince of Wales Museum now Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Vastu Sangrahalaya in Mumbai. Said Dr Pheroza J Godrej, chairperson of the Museum Society of Mumbai (earlier the Museum Society of Bombay), "our partnership with the Museum has been central to our mission of promoting informal education, reaching generations of learners and enthusiasts. Our programmes have always aimed to inspire curiosity, provide educational opportunities and foster a sense of community.” The Premchand Roychand Gallery of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Vastu Sangrahalaya (CSMVS) was packed with trustees, committee members, academicians, volunteers and dignitaries as the celebratory evening began. A meticulously compiled publication titled ‘Celebrating a Diamond: The Museum Society of Mumbai 60 Years of Legacy and Learning’ was released by director general of the Museum, Dr Sabyaschi Mukherjee and Mr Cyrus Guzder, chairman of board of trustees of CSMVS. Meher Marfatia, a senior journalist and independent publisher is its author, with Dr Shefali Balsari-Shah as its editor. What made the evening special was the release of the ‘Special Cover’ by Amitabh Singh, chief post master general and Suchita Joshi, post master general of the Mumbai Region. Readers may not be aware that ‘special covers’ are released by the Department of Posts in India to commemorate historic events, people and places with stamps designed for the occasion; in the pre-Internet days, ‘special covers’ were much sought after by collectors and enthusiasts alike Special cover by Department of Posts to mark 60 years of Museum Society of Mumbai. Credit: Museum Society of Mumbai ‘Celebrating a Diamond’ commemorates the rich history of the Museum Society of Mumbai and the legacy cultivated over the years. Dr Godrej’s message states, “The Society's dedication to promoting knowledge, culture, and education through the Museum has made a lasting impact on countless individuals and communities. It is this enduring legacy that we honour today. We also recognize and honour the unwavering commitment of our volunteers, members and volunteers who have shaped the Society into what it is today. Their passion and vision have laid the groundwork for our continued growth, allowing us to expand our reach and engage with new generations of learners. Most importantly, we reflect on the values that have guided the Museum Society of Mumbai since its inception, by those who came before us. We have always believed in the power of collaboration - between individuals, communities and institutions - to bring culture, history and education to life in meaningful ways, and aspire to continue the tradition.” In the fast-paced life of mega-cities, like Mumbai, it is a continuing challenge to keep alive the interest in history and heritage in museums. “Looking ahead we are committed to expanding our offerings to reach an even wider and more diverse audience,” said Dr Godrej, adding, “we envision integrating new technologies and modern approaches to create dynamic programs that cater to all ages and sections of society, ensuring that the Museum remains a space of learning, engagement and enrichment. Our goal is to continue serving as a bridge between the past and the present, while also addressing contemporary issues, inviting dialogue and nurturing a deeper appreciation of our shared heritage. It is my hope that this record of our history will also inspire future generations to continue and build upon the mission and spirit of the Museum Society of Mumbai. Together we will continue to be a beacon of learning, collaboration and community for years to come.” Society members on site visit in 1970s. Credit: Museum Society of Mumbai Shared commitment Dr Sabhyasachi Mukherjee, director general of CSMVS said, “I am reminded of the words of JP Brander ICS, chairman of the board of trustees of Prince of Wales Museum who was present during the inauguration on January 10, 1922 - 'the Museum should large be an institution or foundation for promoting research on all branches of science and technology and not only a museum of curiosities for the sightseer'. I am proud that the Museum Society of Mumbai has done exactly this and beyond, throughout its enduring and fruitful association of 61 years with the CSMVS Museum.” The partnership between the Museum and the Society, highlighted Dr Mukherjee, is more than just an operational alliance: “it is a shared commitment of making culture accessible to all. Together, we have created a space where art, history and knowledge converge, encouraging visitors to engage with the past while thinking critically about the present. The Society's volunteer driven efforts have enriched our offerings, introducing innovative programs that cater to the interests of both our long-standing patrons and newer, more varied audiences.” ‘Celebrating a Diamond’ presenting the history of the Museum Society of Mumbai is a fitting tribute to the legacy of this shared association. “The stories, events, and milestones chronicled here showcase the passion and commitment that have driven the Society's work over the decades. As you turn these pages, I hope you will appreciate not only the remarkable history we share but also the promise of a great future ahead. I thank Dr Pheroza J Godrej for taking the initiative and documenting this journey,” said the director general. Dr Mukherjee is conscious of how the world around us is changing as are “the needs of our communities, and it is more important than ever to work together to remain relevant, inclusive and impactful. Through digital initiatives, community-focused events, and educational collaborations, supported by our shared resources and expertise, we can ensure that both the Museum and Society continue to serve as vibrant hubs for learning and cultural exchange. I am confident that this collaboration will only grow stronger in the years to come. Together we will continue to inspire curiosity, foster learning and nurture a deeper connection to our cultural heritage, ensuring that both institutions remain vital resources for future generations.” 1988 silver jubilee celebrations (left to right): Dr Pheroza Godrej, Pauline Rohatgi, Arti Mehta, Karl Khandalawala, Devangana Desai and Kunjalata Shah. Credit: Museum Society of Mumbai Ambitious vision Museum Society of Mumbai was established over sixty years ago with a wonderfully ambitious vision: to be a cultural conduit between the citizens of Bombay and the Prince of Wales Museum, the premier cultural institution and museum in India. It was rechristened the Museum Society of Mumbai (MSM) after 1995-95 when the city name changed from Bombay to Mumbai, and the Prince of...