In a historic move, the Government of India has approved the establishment of the first-ever City Museum in Bhopal. The Madhya Pradesh Tourism Board is setting up the Bhopal City Museum at the left wing of Moti Mahal is a one-of-its-kind project of the Madhya Pradesh Tourism Board to bring forth a Tourist Interpretation Centre / Citizen Engagement Centre for the heritage and culture lovers.

Principal Secretary of Tourism and Culture and Managing Director of the Tourism Board Mr Sheo Shekhar Shukla said that Moti Mahal is an important heritage site in the city and with the high significance of the building, the proposed museum with 11 galleries will focus on the rich history of Bhopal and Madhya Pradesh covering the Historical and Geographical context of Madhya Pradesh, Bhopal district and the formation of the city of Bhopal in particular.

This highly anticipated museum will showcase the rich tapestry of the region’s history and culture. Visitors can expect to be dazzled by a collection of prehistoric rock paintings, stone tools, archaeological finds, stamps, attire of king and queens from Bhopal and surrounding areas, ancient sculptures, temple remains, and exquisite art from the Bhopal Nawab period. Modern technology will be utilised to create an engaging and informative experience for all age groups. The Ministry of Culture and Tourism, Government of Madhya Pradesh is planning to establish a dedicated and comprehensive Museum on the Great Parmar King Raja Bhoj, His Life and Works, at the right wing of Moti Mahal, Bhopal.

7 houses of 7 major tribes of the state at Tribal Museum 

Another masterstroke is seven houses of the seven major tribes of the state, namely Gond, Bhil, Baiga, Korku, Bharia, Sahariya and Kol, have been built in Tribal Museum Bhopal to understand and see the lifestyle of the tribal community closely. Tribal families will stay in these residences for three to six months. Later, on a rotation basis, other families will come to live in these houses. The vision of this initiative is to end the myths and beliefs regarding the tribal society.

Shri Shukla said visitors will get an opportunity to meet and interact with these tribes in a house constructed by them. Culture and heritage aficionados will get a memorable experience after seeing these houses of 7 different Tribes of MP with walls made by plastering mud on bamboo sacks, the idol of Bada Dev outside the house, a mill of mud and stone in the house, storage sheds, cots, items of daily use and kitchen. Visitors can experience these facets of tribal community and culture from 6th June 2024.

Madhya Pradesh is planning to establish various theme-based museums at relevant heritage and cultural destinations to enhance tourism experience.