Bhau Daji Lad Museum

Description:

• Founded in 1872, the Bhau Daji Lad Museum has long been the predecessor to Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Vastu Sangrahalaya (Prince of Wales Museum). Located in Veermata Jeejamata Udyan (Byculla Zoo), the museum was named after Victoria & Albert, and emerged largely as a result of the initiatives taken by one of Mumbai's revered freedom fighters, Dr. Bhau Daji Lad. The irony behind the renaming notwithstanding, the Bhau Daji Lad Museum echoed with history dating back to the British Raj in India, but had few visitors. Silver and copper ware, ivory models, old photographs, clay models, temples made of pith, interesting agricultural articles and other decorative pieces and figurines, reminiscent of various clans and communities, silently rest in peace. Owing to private enterprise initiatives and the Mumbai chapter of INTACH, the museum saw a face lift in 2007, restoring it to its old glory. It's about time more people walked off the beaten path and took notice of this hidden museum.
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