Begin typing your search above and press return to search.

30 years on, Dhubri museum still in a pitiable state

By Correspondent

DHUBRI, July 7 - Although the District Museum of Dhubri entered its 30th year of existence on Friday, overcoming various challenges in the past, its condition still evokes pity.

Since July 6, 1988, the day it came into existence, scholars and well-wishers of the museum with the help of the district administration, have collected over 1000 objects representing the socio-cultural life of people in Dhubri. It also has many items related to the British era, items from the pre-British era and a huge collection of items that speak about the history and glory of western Assam in the past. These valuable treasures were collected through donations and purchases.

However, the museum has not been able to add to its collection as it is temporarily sheltered in a room at the District Library, Dhubri. Museum officials informed that due to lack of a permanent space, they are not able to showcase large size items.

In this regard, the newly-appointed District Museum Officer, Mrinmoy Das said, �We are committed to develop the institution through more public engagement by conducting various events and activities in the coming years. Various projects are already in the pipeline�.

Das believes that with such activities they can bring back the lost glory of the museum and hopes that more schools and general public will visit the museum to have a deeper understanding of the cultural significance of the area. �The government is every enthusiastic in developing the cultural sector of each corner of the State and this initiative will help the museum to expand in all directions�.

He also added that on July 6, the museum completed its 29th year of existence and in the coming years, it is expected to grow with its collection, conservation and public engagement and, �we firmly believe that the museum after having its own address, will become a prime centre of cultural learning for the locals as well as the tourists.

It may be mentioned that the museum holds some very precious collections which includes an oil lamp with the image of Narayana seated on the back of Garuda, a silver Koch coin with the inscription that says that it was issued by Lakshmi Narayan (dated 1477 Saka -1555AD), painted pata on pith sheet showing Hanuman carrying Lakshmana on his back during the battle of Lanka with Ravana that represents a living folk art practised among the Malakars or Bhuimali communities residing in different parts of undivided Goalpara district etc.

Next Story