Hyderabad State Museum draws criticism for poor display
HYDERABAD: The Telangana State Museum in Public Gardens is drawing concern from visitors who say only a fraction of its heritage collection is on display, limiting their experience of the state’s artistic and archaeological past.
Visitors say key artefacts remain locked away
The museum, originally built in 1920 as an archaeology building and designated a state museum in 1956, houses decorative pieces, bronze works, Ajanta-style paintings, Buddhist relics, royal belongings, sculptures, war cannons and more than 2,90,000 gold, silver, copper, brass and lead coins from the Chola, Kakatiya, Krishnadevaraya, Maurya, British and Nawab periods.
However, visitors say they are unable to access most of these objects. Only about 10% of the heritage material is on display, leaving several important artefacts unseen. A small mother-and-child figurine excavated in Dulikatta village of Karimnagar district, ancient punch-mark coins, metalwork, weapons, early human tools and rare figurines remain stored away.
Key exhibits remain in storage due to lack of staff
A 17th-century wooden chariot kept in the gallery courtyard has survived without damage, while a gun attributed to Tipu Sultan from the 1930s is held in cold storage. Due to the absence of technical staff and guides, visitors say they are unable to understand the historical significance of even the exhibits that are open for viewing. The cannons also show signs of neglect.
Visitors seek modernisation of heritage structure
The heritage building, which has reached a deteriorated state, cannot be demolished under conservation rules. Visitors are now urging senior officials to take up modernisation and improve public access to the museum’s collection.
Museum closed on Fridays
The museum remains closed every Friday. On other days, it is open from 10.30am to 4.30pm. Entry is ₹20 for adults, ₹10 for children and ₹50 for foreign nationals. Additional charges apply for photography and videography.
