The Humayun’s Tomb World Heritage Site Museum in Delhi is a new cultural attraction that offers visitors a unique opportunity to delve into the history of the Mughal era like never before. The museum, known as the ‘sunken museum’ due to its underground location, showcases over 500 artefacts that have been meticulously preserved over 25 years by the National Museum, Archaeological Survey of India, and the Aga Khan Trust for Culture (AKTC).
One of the highlights of the museum is the collection of bronze sculptures of Humayun by Jill Watson. These sculptures depict the emperor wearing robes that match the planetary colors of each day, reflecting ancient Hindu astrological traditions. The museum also features Mughal miniatures, sacred texts on stone inscriptions and paper, calligraphy, manuscripts, portraits, architectural elements, coins, astrolabes, celestial spheres, and 3-D illustrations, among other artefacts.
The artefacts on display at the museum offer insights into Humayun’s travels across Hindustan, Persia, and beyond, providing a glimpse into the rich cultural heritage of the Mughal era. The museum, spread over 1 lakh square feet and built at a cost of over Rs 250 crore, also includes facilities such as an auditorium, temporary galleries, cafes, meeting rooms, a library, and more.
One of the unique features of the museum is its design, which resembles a baoli (stepwell) to preserve views of nearby monuments. It also serves as an underground bridge connecting the Humayun’s Tomb complex to the adjacent Sunder Nursery. The museum also houses astrolabes crafted by five generations of a family from Samarqand, who signed their works with the name ‘Humayuni.’
The centrepiece of the museum is the 18-ft-tall golden finial or kalash, which once adorned the dome of Humayun’s Tomb before being knocked off in a storm in 2014. Traditional coppersmiths have since repaired the finial, and it now stands proudly inside the museum, symbolizing the rich history and craftsmanship of the Mughal era.
Overall, the Humayun’s Tomb World Heritage Site Museum offers a fascinating journey through time, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in the art, culture, and history of one of India’s most iconic dynasties. With its impressive collection of artefacts and unique design, the museum is a must-visit for anyone interested in exploring the legacy of the Mughal empire.
