Explained | The Pradhanmantri Sangrahalaya, and the controversy around it

Pradhanmantri Sangrahalaya, a museum in tribute to all former Prime Ministers, was inaugurated by PM Narendra Modi on April 14.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the Pradhanmantri Sangrahalaya in New Delhi on April 14, buying the first ticket to the museum dedicated to the former PMs of the country. The Sangrahalaya, located at the iconic Teen Murti complex, was inaugurated as part of Azadi ka Amrit Mahotsav — a 75-week celebration launched to mark 75 years of Independence.

The museum will become the source of inspiration for the youth who will be able to witness the hardships each PM faced and how they overcame them to lay the foundations of new India, the PM said. He added that the museum will reflect the shared heritage of each government.

The project to build the new museum faced stiff opposition when the government announced its plan in 2018. The Congress alleged that the new museum was an attempt to dilute the legacy of India’s first PM Jawaharlal Nehru, a charge rejected by the Centre.  

The museum building integrates the Teen Murti Bhawan in New Delhi, designated as Block I, with the newly-constructed Block II. The total area of the two blocks is over 15,600 square metres. There are 43 galleries in the Sangrahalaya. 

The logo of the Sangrahalaya, meanwhile, shows hands holding the dharma chakra, symbolising the nation and democracy.

Officials have claimed that the museum design incorporates sustainable and energy conservation practices and no tree was felled or transplanted during the course of work on the project.

From the freedom struggle to the framing of the Constitution, the museum will have displays that showcase stories of how the respective Prime Ministers steered the nation.