Governor Shiv Pratap Shukla Calls Salar Jung Museum Repository of Rich Heritage
Bhatti said the museum would not remain an isolated monument but would become the cultural crown of a revitalised Musi Riverfront.
Hyderabad: Governor Shiv Pratap Shukla on Sunday described the Salar Jung Museum as a symbol of world cultures and an enduring repository of India’s rich heritage. He suggested that a State Cabinet meeting be held at the museum to showcase its significance to the world.
Addressing the inaugural programme of the platinum jubilee celebrations of the museum and the birth anniversary of Salar Jung III, the Governor said just as the Charminar has become synonymous with Hyderabad, the Salar Jung Museum too occupies a place of equal distinction in the city’s identity.
Paying tributes to Nawab Mir Yousuf Ali Khan (Salar Jung III), Shukla said it was his vision and foresight that enabled the collection of priceless works of art from across the globe. He noted that collections from Persia, Egypt, China, Japan and Europe reflected Hyderabad’s cosmopolitan outlook and tradition of cultural openness. He said iconic exhibits such as the world‑renowned Veiled Rebecca, rare copies of the Holy Quran, Chola bronzes, Buddhist artefacts and Christian sculptures have elevated the museum to international prominence.
Deputy Chief Minister Bhatti Vikramarka said the Salar Jung Museum reflects Hyderabad’s spirit. “We often forget small things such as our spectacles, mobile phones or car keys. But Salar Jung III preserved entire civilizations,” he remarked.
He said the museum would not remain an isolated monument but would become the cultural crown of a revitalised Musi Riverfront. Plans are being prepared to connect the museum with an Old City Heritage Circuit including Charminar, Golconda Fort, the Qutb Shahi Tombs, Chowmahalla Palace and Falaknuma Palace.
Improved transport facilities, night tourism initiatives and guided heritage walks in Telugu, Urdu, Hindi and English will be introduced. A five‑year roadmap for modernisation and expansion of the museum was unveiled, along with a souvenir shop and a special exhibition of handicrafts and handloom products. Transport minister Ponnam Prabhakar also participated.