Technology-driven revamp of State museums in the offing
Museums in Karnataka are set for a revamp with plans for their modernisation and introduction of interactive features.
This was stated by A. Devaraju, Commissioner of the Department of Archaeology, Museums, and Heritage, here on Sunday. Speaking to The Hindu on the sidelines of International Museum Day, Mr. Devaraju said there are 16 museums and an art gallery under the department and they are undergoing infrastructure upgrades.
He said renovation work of some of the museum buildings at Basavakalyana, Athani, Madikeri, Gadag, and Mangaluru have been completed.
'We are prioritising infrastructure and curation. At Madikeri, interiors are being revamped. Work at Athani and Basavakalyana is nearly complete,' he said.
The department was also exploring augmented reality and virtual reality technologies to make the visitor experience at museums more immersive and interactive. The objective is to engage with the young minds and instil interest in them in areas of art and cultural heritage as depicted by the artifacts and the exhibits.
Mr. Devaraju said a tech firm, Apozee, has been roped in to prepare concept ideas and a Detailed Project Report (DPR) for digital walkthroughs and interactive experiences. 'They have been asked to visit sites and submit proposals soon,' he added.
Meanwhile, plans are also under way to redesign museums at Yellandur and Srirangapatna, the latter struggling with visibility issues despite its location near the iconic Ranganathaswamy Temple.
On the proposed museum near Chamundi Vihar Stadium, which received budgetary support from the State government, the Commissioner said the concept was yet to be finalised. The department will not rush into preparing a DPR until there was clarity on the concept and it was being worked out, he added.
Another mega project is also on the cards as the old Deputy Commissioner's office in Mysuru may soon transform into a full-fledged museum under the Swadesh Darshan scheme, according to the Commissioner. Incidentally, Chief Minister Siddaramaiah had announced that a museum showcasing the evolution of the Indian Constitution will be established.
Minister for Tourism H.K. Patil had stated sometime ago that the archaeology department, if provided with some space for a couple of galleries, could exhibit the rich collection of artifacts in its inventory, encompassing various dynasties in the same building.
Mr. Devaraju also confirmed that the Archaeological Survey of India has given its approval for taking up excavations at Rajghatta and Lakkundi, and it would be inaugurated by Chief Minister Siddaramaiah on June 3, 2025.
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