India’s First Suken Museum at Humayun's Tomb Complex in Delhi Unveiled

First ever sunken Museum inaugurated in New Delhi, India at Humayun's Tomb Complex displaying over 500 artefacts publicly for the first time.

Delhi, a city steeped in history and culture, has added another jewel to its crown with the unveiling of India's first sunken museum at the Humayun's Tomb Complex. This innovative museum, which opened its doors recently, promises to offer a unique and immersive experience, blending the rich heritage of the Mughal era with modern architectural design.

On July 29, Union Culture Minister Gajendra Singh Shekhawat officially inaugurated the museum showcasing over 500 artefacts, many of which are on public display for the first time. Designed to be below ground level, it seamlessly integrates with the surrounding landscape, ensuring that the visual and historical integrity of the iconic Humayun's Tomb remains undisturbed.

Offering insights into the rich heritage of the Nizamuddin area and the life of Mughal emperor Humayun, the museum is inspired by traditional 'baolis' or water tanks. Developed by the Aga Khan Trust for Culture in collaboration with the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI), the museum is a product of 25 years of conservation efforts across the 300-acre site that includes Humayun's Tomb, Sunder Nursery, and Nizamuddin Basti.

One of the museum's standout features is its focus on the story of Humayun's Tomb itself. Built-in 1570, this mausoleum was the first garden tomb on the Indian subcontinent and served as a precursor to the Taj Mahal. Visitors can explore meticulously curated Mughal miniatures, coins, textiles, and various other relics. The museum also has an immersive gallery that features a 270-degree screen offering virtual tours of the World Heritage Site's monuments and gardens, as well as an animated presentation on the evolution of Humayun's Tomb over the last 500 years.

The museum's inauguration coincided with the 46th session of the UNESCO World Heritage Committee in New Delhi and it is now open to the public. The sunken museum at Humayun's Tomb Complex is not just a tribute to the past but also a nod to the future. By blending historical preservation with cutting-edge technology, it sets a new standard for museums in India. As Delhi continues to evolve as a global metropolis, this museum stands as a testament to the city's enduring legacy and its commitment to celebrating and preserving its rich cultural heritage.