Read More on Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Vastu Sangrahalaya
History
The Prince of Wales on 11 November 1905, laid the foundation of the museum, and it was formally named "Prince of Wales Museum of Western India". The government of the Bombay Presidency on 1st March 1907, granted the museum committee a piece of land called the "Crescent Site", where the museum stands today. In 1909, the architect George Wittlet was commissioned to design the Museum building, which he secured through an open design competition. Wittlet also went on to design one of Mumbai's most famous landmarks, the Gateway of India in 1911.
Royal Visit (1905) Memorial Funds funded the museum. The Government and the Municipality also granted 300,000 and 250,000 rupees respectively. Sir Currimbhoy Ibrahim (first Baronet) and Sir Cowasji Jehangir donated Rs. 300,000 and Rs. 50,000 respectively. The Museum came into existence under Bombay Act No. III of 1909.The museum building was ready for use in 1915, but instead, it was used as a Children's Welfare Centre and a Military Hospital during the First World War. It was finally handed over to the committee in 1920. The museum receives annual grants from the Government and the Bombay Municipal Corporation, which keeps it running.
Architecture
This beautiful museum building is situated in 3 acres of area, with a built-up area of 12,142.23m sq. A Garden with formal flower beds and palm trees has surrounded this place.
Locally quarried grey Kurla basalt and buff-colored trachyte Malad stone are used in the construction of this building. This three-storied rectangular structure is capped by a dome set upon a base, which adds storey in the center of the building. The architectural style of the museum is Western Indian and Indo-Saracenic.
Activities
- There is an amazing coin gallery located inside the museum which you must enjoy.
- You can easily purchase souvenirs from the shop inside the museum.
- The galleries available in the museum such as the Natural History Section, the Indian Miniature Painting Gallery, Krishna gallery, Decorative Metalware gallery, and the House of Laxmi- Coin gallery are all to visit.
Tips for visiting
- There is a special discount for college students, senior citizens, and the defense personale. So to avail of the discount, you must carry your identity proof.
- You will be charged extra for your mobiles. If you are carrying a camera and tripod, then the extra fee is applicable.
- Audio phones are a must if you are more interested in knowing things in a better way.
- Alcohol is strictly prohibited inside the museum complex.
- Outside foods and drinks are not allowed in the museum.
- The Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Vastu Sangrahalaya ticket price is very cheap.
Best time to visit
The best time to visit the Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Vastu Sangrahalaya will be in the morning time when the place is not crowded. You can freely explore the place and enjoy your visit.
Nearby Atractions
- Lion gate
- Jehangir art gallery
- Lal Bahadur Shastri statue
- Moksha art gallery
- Regal circle
- David Sasson library and reading room
- The Art entrance gallery
Nearby market/ shopping places
The Colaba Market is very close to the museum. The market is very famous among Mumbaikers for high-end shopping and boutiques. Street shopping of the market is also very much liked by the visitors.
Nearby Hotels
- Suncity Apollo Hotel
- Hotel Lords
- The Gordon House Hotel
- Carlton Hotel - Behind Taj Mahal Palace
Interesting Facts About Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Vastu Sangrahalaya
- The Museum was earlier known as the Prince of Wales Museum.
- This place was used as a hospital by military personnel, during the first world war.
- It was inaugurated by Lady Lloyd and was made accessible to everyone in the year 1922.
- The architecture of the museum also involves the Indian style.
- The architect of this museum has also built the Gateway of India.
