Odisha State Museum is a museum in Bhubaneswar, Odisha. In its original form it was established in 1932 and later moved to the current building in 1960.The museum is divided into eleven sections, viz, Archaeology, Epigraphy, Numismatics, Armoury, Mining & Geology, Natural History, Art & Craft, Contemporary Art, Patta Painting, Anthropology and Palmleaf Manuscripts.The museum is headed by a superintendent and the administrative control lies in the hands of Cultural Affairs Department, Government of Odisha.
The origin of this museum can be traced back to 1932, when some historians and professors, like William Jones, Ghanashyam Das, N. C. Banerjee, Harekrushna Mahatab established a museum in Ravenshaw College, Cuttack. In 1945-46, the Museum was shifted to Brahmananda building in old Bhubaneswar and given the status of a State Museum by the Government of Odisha.Later, the Museum was shifted to Patel Hall in 1950 and again to another building in Unit - I, Bhubaneswar. In 1957, the foundation of the Museum was laid by then President of India, Rajendra Prasad, and finally the Museum in the current building started operating from 1960.
Dating back to 1932, the Odisha State Museum is the premier museum of the state. It is a repository that offers a glimpse into the history of Odisha’s across eras.
The sprawling museum complex houses a vast array of galleries each catering to a specific aspect of our history.
The gallery displaying coins of the ancient and medieval age of Odisha is of particular interest for those who are inclined towards history and have numismatics as a hobby.
Showcases specimens of rare mammals and birds through evolution of the species. This gallery generates great interest amongst the children.
Showcases specimens of rare mammals and birds through evolution of the species. This gallery generates great interest amongst the children.
Displays weapons excavated in archaeology sites as well as personal weapons of donated to the museum by various Kings of Odisha.
The museum has a rich collection of ancient manuscripts which are probably the highlight of the museum and one of the finest collections in the country. The museum even offers an online catalogue for the same. At the museum INTACH works on preserving ancient manuscripts engraved on palm leaves.
The newest addition to the museum, the gallery focusses on the Paika revolution- The uprising of the Paika’s (the warrior clan of Odisha) against the British Imperialism.
