Treasure trove of culture

The INTACH Heritage Museum in Dharwad is a new addition to the city’s vibrant cultural landscape. The aesthetic exteriors of the building located in the premises of Mallikarjun Mansur Kalabhavan (the municipal auditorium) attracts both city dwellers and tourists. The walls of the red brick building of British period is decorated with warli art. Inside, a world of art, culture and literature in the form of articles, documents and pictorial representations awaits to intrigue a visitor. The exhibits here include the photographs of achievers in the fields of art, literature, music and social work with a brief information about their work and achievement; copies of ancient manuscripts, awards and articles belonging to famous personalities and other items that depict the glory of this region.

While the manuscript of Supashastra by Mangarasa fascinates one, the personal belongings of Lieutenant General S C Sardeshpande including his army uniform, tonga (carriage) etc, takes a visitor to the bygone era. S C Sardeshpande was the first person from North Karnataka to reach the top brass in the army. The museum also has a collection of educational materials such as stamps, coins, currency, typewriter, cane basket etc.

A part of the museum is dedicated to the works of renowned artists. The art works displayed here range from mythological paintings to abstract art.

The rich collection that depicts the historical and cultural significance of the region was conceptualised by art enthusiast N P Bhat, who has been supporting art and literature-related activities in the city through his cultural organisation ‘Avani Rasikara Ranga’. Along with organising cultural events, the octogenarian has also been encouraging promising artists and writers. N P Bhat, who is also the convener of the Dharwad chapter of Indian National Trust for Art and Cultural Heritage (INTACH), proposed setting up a cultural museum in Dharwad through the organisation. Once he got a positive response from INTACH, he relentlessly pursued it. As a result, while Hubballi-Dharwad Municipal Corporation granted land, many donors have offered financial support. Though the focus is on North Karnataka, the museum also has exhibits from other places of Karnataka. 

Kumar Katenahalli, an artist and a photographer, has given an aesthetic touch to the exhibits at the museum using advanced tools of technology. Over 10,000 people have visited the museum in the last two years. After visiting the museum, well-known writer Vaidehi has opined that it brings alive the memorable moments from the cultural history of the State. Art students who come here feel that it is a treasure trove of knowledge. They also feel that it is a rare opportunity to see the awards and accolades won by many authors and artists in one place.

(Translated by AP)