Journeying into the past pinnacle of art

The Asutosh Museum of Indian Art is officially classified as a museum, yet its vast collection of paintings, artifacts, sculptures, folk art, and terracottas meticulously curated and displayed, transforms it into a surreal, grand colosseum of art. This momentous work was executed by a revered educationist named Sir Asutosh Mookerjee - the man who pioneered the study of Indology, an amalgamation of Indian art and archaeology. The design of the course was made meticulous and exhaustive so that it could conclude in the preservation, presentation, and study of objects of Indian art and antiquity particularly of eastern India.

Today what stands as a wondrous collection of an astounding 25,000 items began with simple 5 humble objects. With the time and selfless endeavors of Sri D.P. Ghosh, the first Curator, and several benevolent donors and selfless workers, the museum has flourished as a congregation of one of the most stupendous collections in the world. 

Admired as a premier museum of national importance, it cradles artifacts that whisper tales of ancient civilizations, their intricacies crafted with unparalleled skill and devotion. From the majestic sculptures that chronicle the evolution of Bengal's artistic heritage to the vibrant terracottas that bear witness to bygone eras, each piece is a masterpiece. The museum's collection transcends time and space, offering a glimpse into the rich tapestry of Indian culture—a celebration of beauty, creativity, and the enduring spirit of human ingenuity.

Shifting with the winds of time

Rearing these priceless pieces of art and artifacts in a safe, impervious enclosure was an uphill task in the nascent years. It began when they were housed in the rear part of the old Senate Hall. Very soon, as the political atmosphere grew heavy and gloomy, they were shifted to Murshidabad Imambada with the heavy stone sculptures being put underground to be sheltered from frequent bombings. The year was 1942 and the consequences of World War II were proving to be incredulously unpleasant.  The collections were routed back after five long years only to be shifted again in 1960. Having travelled and lived in makeshift homes the museum finally got its forever abode at the newly constructed Centenary Building of the University.  

The blueprint of the treasure chest

Walking through the hallowed halls of the museum feels like drifting through time and space. It’s like entering portals of the bygone era and immersing your senses into the intricate works of art of Bengal and its neighbours. The entrance is graced with a grand foyer, after which lies a vault of breath-taking, majestic sculptures – You will be mesmerized by the eye-striking sculpture of Vasudeva in black basalt from Jessore, which stands alone at the far end of the hall.

The place is teeming with carefully sourced stone sculptures of the richest variety, from different parts of Bengal, Orissa, and Bihar. Breeze through artifacts made of terracotta, coins, seals, beads, stone sculptures, and other antiquities that were excavated and rescued decades ago. Some Buddhist sculptures originating from Sarnath, alongside architectural slabs exuding restrained ornamentation and balanced aesthetics, exemplify the refined craftsmanship of the classical Gupta style. 

After you immerse yourself in the collection on the ground floor, the curvaceous, commanding staircase will then escort you to the first floor of the museum. Here you will be humbled by the presence of piling archives of ancient Indian and Srilankan mural paintings, folk art, and metal and wooden sculptures. In the main hall here, opulent folk art from Bengal and Orissa, vivid and enigmatic banner paintings from Tibet and Nepal, and numerous paintings of the Mughal, Rajasthani, and Pahari local styles, Pats (scroll paintings), painted Saras, (manuscript covers with paintings), Kantha (embroidered textiles), folk-toys, dolls and ritual objects are on display.  The intricate, detailed, and breath-taking art commemorating the lives of Krishna, Rama, and Sri Chaitanya are also exhibited here for the world to be enraptured by the beauty. 

It might intrigue you to find that the art of Bengal is discerned by dramatic action and sensitiveness, while those from Orissa are luxurious in pigments and ornamental details. On one hand, Kantha, a famous form of art is distinguished by the simple figure lines, varied motifs, and colorful background while the pieces from Jessore and Khulna in Bangladesh stand out for their exceptional craftsmanship.  You will also encounter delicate, intricate, and lovingly crafted art pieces from Goalpara, Assam, and a wooden doll possibly representing a noble lady from Dhaka, Bangladesh. 

Timings

Opening time - 10:00 AM

Closing time - 06:00 PM (Monday to Saturday)

Journeying through urban wonders

The museum has an inherent hypnotic charm on its visitors. To break free from it and indulge in the other wonders of the city, you can plan a visit to the holy grounds of Dakshineswar Temple. The architecture, the wafting of prayers, and the lilting breeze of devotion will guide you toward spiritual enlightenment. Or take an easy walk along the Princep Ghat. Sit, watch, and delve in peace as the Hooghly River washes away your worries. If you want to experience the bustle of the town you could even stroll across the majestic Howrah Bridge and feel the heartbeat of Kolkata pulsating beneath your feet, as the city's vibrant energy flows through every rivet and beam.