After our visit to the iconic Gateway of India in Mumbai, we headed to the Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Vastu Sangrahalaya (CSMVS), which is just a short 20-minute walk (1472 meters) away from the Gateway of India in Colaba. Upon arrival, we had the choice of two entry options: one priced at 150/- for admission without photography and another at 200/- that included photography privileges.
Formerly CSMVS was known as the Prince of Wales Museum of Western India, this museum is a prominent cultural and historical institution in India. It operates as a not-profit organization, established by the Prince of Wales Museum Act in 1909, and relies on public–private partnerships for support.
Below are the milestones that make it the first museum located in a heritage building or precinct to receive such recognition.
- Heritage Recognition: CSMVS is recognized as a Grade I Heritage Building, highlighting its architectural significance.
- UNESCO Accolades: The museum received the '2022 Award of Excellence' from the UNESCO Asia Pacific Awards for Cultural Heritage Conservation and was designated a UNESCO World Heritage site in 2018 as part of the Victorian Gothic and Art Deco Ensemble in Mumbai.
- Environmental Leadership: In 2019, CSMVS achieved the highest (Platinum) rating from the Indian Green Building Council, underscoring its global leadership in environmental management.
Here are some sculptures and arts that caught my attention at the museum.
Front view of the Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Vastu Sangrahalaya (CSMVS), Mumbai
Yajna Varaha: Vishnu's Boar Incarnation: red sandstone marvel of Yajna Varaha, Vishnu's boar incarnation, from 900-1099 CE at Vidisha District Archaeological Museum, Madhya Pradesh, India.
Shantinatha (Right), the 16th Jain Tirthankara, crafted in Marble at South Thar Parkar district, Sindh, Pakistan, dated Samvat 1195 (1138 CE). The sculpture embodies calm meditation in the kayotsarga pose, with a Devnagari inscription attesting its creation by Gargasuri for Shri Jineshwarachya Sangha. Sadashiva (Middle), Madhya Pradesh, the supreme form of Shiva, embodying nishkola - sakala, representing the five elements, with three faces symbolizing air, fire, and water. Unveil the divine essence worshipped by the Pashupata cult in 1st - 2nd centuries CE. Buddha (Left) seated in padmasana, touching the earth in the bhumisparsha mudra. This moment symbolizes his enlightenment, a pivotal event in Buddhism's history. Journey from Prince Siddharth to the enlightened Buddha, calling upon the earth as a witness to this transformative experience.
ANADEVATA: Tribal belief in nature through metal alloy Dokra Art in Chhattisgarh. Suresh Baghmare captures the essence of forest deities, showcasing the reverence for all living creatures among ancient Indian forest dwellers. Witness the sacred connection between nature, animals, and the worshipped deities in this art form.
Evolution of Indian Miniature Painting
Indian Miniature Painting: Trace the origins from palm leaves to paper in the 14th century CE. Explore diverse styles like Mughal, Pahari, and more, each reflecting regional influences. The tradition thrives in parts of India.
That's it from CSMVS at Mumbai. We head towards Marine Drive.
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