The story of history
As one of the first 10 museums of the country, the Mahant Ghasi Das Museum was established in the year 1875. It was initially located in an octagonal building east of the present ministry premises. With time, the museum attracted patrons who followed in the footsteps of their predecessors and contributed to making the museum what it is today. The museum honours the contributions made by Queen Jyoti Devi of Rajnandgaon. Because of her contributions the museum opened its doors in the form of a new building (the present museum), which is located across the Collectorate’s Office on JE Road. Its grand inauguration by the then President of India, Dr. Rajendra Prasad, added a touch of grandeur to its already illustrious history. Covering a vast area of 2 hectares, it highlights the importance of preserving our archaeological heritage for future generations. It invites visitors to explore the cultural treasures of Chhattisgarh.
Blissful blueprint
The museum boasts of a British architectural design, made to invite people into a spacious, airy and cool space that showcases Chhattisgarh’s vibrant culture. The Mahant Ghasi Das Museum transports you to a different world right from the start. As you enter, you’ll notice a display of various artifacts from coins, to sculptures, from various places of Chhattisgarh - an insight into the local culture.
Right at the entry you’ll be greeted by a beautifully carved murti (sculpture) of Lord Ganesh, the Indian god and patron of the Arts, inviting visitors into a magical representation of Chhattisgarhi culture. Every artefact at the museum is original and stands as true, unhindered evidence of the past.
The building has three floors - ground, first and second. Each floor is divided into galleries representing different themes, cultures and topics - the details of each relic found alongside it for better understanding.