A LEGACY PRESERVED
Celebrating 11 years, the museum hosts exhibitions blending art, history and imaginationy, says GYANESHWAR DAYAL
The Heritage Transport Museum (HTM) marked its 11th anniversary with two captivating exhibitions blending futuristic imagination and historical heritage. Running until 31 March 2025, the exhibitions, Light Years Ahead and Prints of the Divine, offer visitors a journey through artistic innovation and cultural history.
A Legacy of Art and Vision
The event featured Rama Varma Thampuran, Prince of Kilimanoor Palace and a descendant of the iconic artist Raja Ravi Varma, and Rajiv Lochan, former Director of the National Gallery of Modern Art (NGMA). Rama Varma Thampuran, a renowned musician and cultural advocate, celebrates the legacy of Raja Ravi Varma, while Rajiv Lochan’s commitment to art underscores the exhibitions’ significance in India’s cultural landscape.
A Vision of the Future
Curated by artist Vishal K. Dar, Light Years Ahead transforms the museum’s experience room into a futuristic realm. Featuring luminous sculptural totems and tri-coloured coded messages, this installation invites visitors to ponder alternate realities and embrace boundless imagination.
A Glimpse into India’s Art History
Prints of the Divine celebrates India’s artistic legacy through oleographs, lithographic plates, and postcards by Raja Ravi Varma and M.V. Dhurandhar. Curated by Prem Kandwal, this collection features rare works that highlight the evolution of early Indian print art, blending mythological themes with artistic innovation.
Reflecting on the exhibitions, Rama Varma Thampuran remarked: “Art and music have the power to heal and inspire. Sharing this passion with the world is truly an honour.”
Rajiv Lochan echoed these sentiments: “Art is a universal language that bridges cultures and fosters compassion. Creativity has the potential to unite us all.”
Honouring Raja Ravi Varma’s Legacy
Raja Ravi Varma (1848–1906), a pioneer of lithographic printing in India, is celebrated for combining Indian aesthetics with European techniques. His iconic mythological depictions brought art to the masses and continue to inspire generations.
HTM: A Journey Through Time
Reflecting on HTM’s milestone, Founder and Managing Trustee Tarun Thakral said:
“We are delighted to present these exhibitions to commemorate our 11th anniversary. They offer visitors a unique journey through time, one into the future, the other into the past.”
Since its inception in 2013, HTM has become India’s first comprehensive transport museum, showcasing over 3,500 curated objects. Located in Taoru-Gurgaon, an hour from New Delhi, the museum combines historical exhibits with contemporary themes, offering visitors a unique blend of education and cultural engagement.
Through Light Years Ahead and Prints of the Divine, HTM not only celebrates its anniversary but also reinforces its mission to merge history with innovation, creating a space where past, present and future converge.
Photos: Pankaj kumar
