K J Somaiya Institute of Dharma Studies had organized a conference on ‘Maharashtra’s Cultural Heritage: Retrospection and Roadmap of Archaeology and Museums’ in joint collaboration with Directorate of Archaeology and Museums, Govt. of Maharashtra from 6th to 8th July 2023 at Somaiya Campus. It was conducted to discuss, acknowledge and educate the masses (students, historians, researchers, professionals, etc.) about the nuances related to Maharashtra’s cultural heritage, its preservation and roadmap ahead. More than 200 people attended the conference.
The inaugural function was held on 6th July 2023. Shri Bhalchandra Kulkarni (Deputy Director, Directorate of Archaeology and Museum, Government of Maharashtra), Shri Samir Somaiya (Chancellor, Somaiya Vidyavihar University), Dr Sabhyasachi Mukherjee (Director, Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Vastu Sangrahalaya, Mumbai), Prof. Rajashekharan Pillai (Vice-Chancellor, Somaiya Vidyavihar University), Dr Supriya Rai (Director, K J Institute of Dharma Studies) were present on the occasion.
Shri Bhalachandra Kulkarni, Deputy Director, Directorate of Archaeology and Museums, spoke about the importance of Archaeology and the link between the past and the present. He encouraged young minds to appreciate and preserve cultural heritage. He very well explained the vision and functionality of the Directorate of Archaeology and Museums. He also mentioned a few notable initiatives by the department, which are aiding to preserve the material culture. The Chief Guest, Shri Sudhir Mungantiwar, State cabinet minister for Cultural Affairs, could not attend the conference, but he sent a message regarding his deep interest in the state’s culture, archaeology and heritage and wishing best for the conference.
Dr Sabhyasachi Mukherjee delivered a key-note address. He bemoaned the lack of knowledge regarding Maharashtra’s rich history and culture on a large scale and emphasized the value of museums and cultural heritage as a source of income and education. He suggested creating a museum that would elegantly present Maharashtra’s culture.
Thereafter, Shri Samir Somaiya, Chancellor of Somaiya Vidyavihar University, in his speech mentioned his parents’ role in shaping his values and vision as well as his interest in art and culture. He emphasized the importance of the subjects such as archaeology, museum, culture and heritage as a key element of learning and how it can foster creativity and excellence. The inaugural session of the conference concluded with a heartfelt speech and a vote of thanks by Dr Supriya Rai, who expressed her gratitude to all the delegates and participants.
Interesting sessions on the themes such as Archaeology of Maharashtra: An Overview and Future Road, Preserving Heritage in Cultural Institutions, Preserving Heritage in Cultural Institutions, Representation of Maharashtra’s Heritage at World Heritage Forum (UNESCO), Technology and Public Archaeology were conducted in the conference.
The first day of the conference concluded with a live performance of the Pinguli Chitrakathi puppet show based on the Ramayana. It was presented by the Masage family from Sindhurag. The purpose of having this show was to encourage the local artists as they attempt to depict the history through powerful storytelling.
Apart from the senior speakers, the conference aimed to include a session for the young scholars. This platform was made available so the young scholars could come forward to present their research and have a hands-on experience of the conference. A total of 12-15 scholars presented their papers in this session.
On the occasion of this conference, various workshops such as stone tool making, warli painting, ancient games etc. were organized and all participants enjoyed the participation in them.
A three-day exhibition on conservation of monuments and forts of Maharashtra through ‘before and after’ photographs / prints was organised by the Directorate of Archaeology and Museum, Government of Maharashtra. The exhibition was inaugurated on 6th July by Shri Balchandra Kulkarni, Shri Samir Somaiya and Dr Sabhyasachi Mukherjee. They had a quick glance at the exhibition and appreciated the effort put together. The exhibition was well received by the visitors.
The conference highlighted the various aspects of Maharashtra’s archaeological and cultural legacy on a large scale as well as a roadmap for the future of archaeology and museums of Maharashtra. The third day of the conference contained workshops for the participants. Stone tool making, ancient games and Warli painting were the three activities that the participants could participate in.
Report by: Sudhamshu Hattangadi, K J Somaiya Institute of Dharma Studies
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