Vanishing traditions
In contemporary Punjab, the winds of change blow steadily. Once vibrant customs and rituals now languish in the recesses of memory, overshadowed by the allure of modernity.
The rhythmic hum of spinning charkhas and the vibrant hues of Phulkari embroidery is beginning to fade into obscurity and mechanical threshers have replaced the age-old Charsa and Dhingli, the essence of rural life stands at the precipice of extinction.
Journey through time
The museum has a magnificent portico resembling the traditional rural houses of Punjab. It is spread in a vast area of 4,000 square yards and is bordered by water channels on both sides. A 100 yard long pathway leads you to the beautifully engraved main door of the museum.
The museum is basically divided into two divisions. The first room houses a rare collection of Harappan coins and poetry. Further down is an open kitchen that includes the utensils and equipment typically used in rural Punjab, such as an old earthen chulha (hearth), a peerhi (a low seat) and a big paraat (plate).
Two mannequins of housewives depict the daily life of women. While one appears to be rolling out rotis or chapattis (Indian flatbread) and the other is seen carrying a gaggar (water pot).
The second rooms comprises other equipment used in the household including spinning wheel, grain storage baskets etc. Images of village artisans by the famous artist Kehar Singh adorn the walls of this room. In the centre is a holding statue of a woman making trouser thread.
The next room houses the model of a typical house in rural Punjab. A lady is seen grinding grains with the hand mill. The room also has some other home equipment as well as baskets made of date leaves and reeds. Outside, there is a ‘kuppa’ (huge oil urn) in the verandah (balcony).
