Reimagining Museums Is a Must, Say Experts
Historians pointed out that many site museums in Telangana display sculptures and artefacts, but they should also involve the communities, crafts, traditions and the way people lived.
Hyderabad: Historians and heritage experts stressed the need to shift from traditional to inclusive, community-based museums, which showcase local culture, tradition and everyday life to better connect visitors with history.
A panel discussion ‘The New Age of Museums’ at the International Heritage Tourism Conclave on Friday explored how museums must evolve beyond being repositories of artefacts into vibrant cultural institutions that drive tourism, education and community engagement.
Prof. Aloka Parasher Sen, an author and historian, said there is a debate about how modern museums should be; while some believed museums should mainly focus on education and displaying artefacts, others argued that they should be socially inclusive.
Suggesting that museums should be inclusive and connected to society, she explained culture is not just about art and history but also people's way of life. “Instead of large central museums, attention should be given to site museums and local museums to provide visitors with a complete understanding of a place, " the historian said.
Historians pointed out that many site museums in Telangana display sculptures and artefacts, but they should also involve the communities, crafts, traditions and the way people lived.
Anuradha Reddy, convenor, Intach Hyderabad, said the site museum at Pillalamarri in Mahabubnagar is the best example of a living museum surrounded by archaeological remains and landscape. She said such museums will help people understand what has been lost over time.
Priyanka Francis, director, Salar Jung Museum, and National Gallery of Modern Art, Bengaluru, said visitor preferences have changed over the years.
Museums have always preserved history and heritage for future generations, but today they also need to present stories in a more engaging way that matches the expectations of modern visitors, she said.
She added that with digital technology, people are now exposed to interactive and attractive ways of learning. If museums do not adapt to these changing expectations, visitors may lose interest.
Ajay B. Kochle, director, Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Vastu Sangrahalaya, said a museum should not be judged by the number of objects it preserves but also the quality of experience it provides to visitors and the impact it creates on society. Shoba Rudra, Partner and Founder, RARE, India, also participated in the panel discussion.
