The UP Culture and Tourism Department is striving to attract tourists and introduce the new generation to history, with the revamped Jhansi’s State-of-the-Art Digital Museum being a prime example
The Bundelkhand region of Uttar Pradesh, rich in history, mythology, and spirituality, offers numerous heritage sites that immerse tourists in its historical legacy. The State Museum of Jhansi, now fully revamped and digitalized, preserves Bundelkhand’s rich heritage with state-of-the-art features. The historical information in digital form attracts tourists, especially youth and children, and the entire museum is dedicated to the Queen of Jhansi.
The Uttar Pradesh Culture and Tourism Department is striving to attract tourists and introduce the new generation to history, with the revamped State Museum of Jhansi being a prime example. The museum’s gallery has been transformed with modern technology and digital media, offering detailed insights into the history of Jhansi and Bundelkhand, and drawing a growing number of visitors.
To educate today’s youth about the region’s glorious past, the museum has implemented several modern features, including Virtual Reality (VR) technology. This allows visitors to experience ancient battles first hand, creating an immersive battlefield environment. Digital boards provide historical information with a simple touch, enhancing the interactive experience.
Some unique digital attractions are Books, Coins and Helicopter. The museum’s most captivating feature is a large interactive book, distinct from ordinary books, which use a projector and sensors to “speak” to children as they touch it. This innovative approach presents history in a unique way. The museum also showcases the history of coins through holograms, displaying rotating coins and their historical contexts. Another highlight is a virtual helicopter that intrigues children and youth alike, offering a simulated flight experience while educating them about the city’s main attractions and history.
In the museum, there is a ‘Knowledge Fountain’ that allows visitors to test their knowledge of Bundelkhand’s history. Utilizing modern technology, this feature has been well-received, making learning about Jhansi and Bundelkhand both fun and informative.
On March 12, 2024, Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath virtually inaugurated three fully digitalized galleries in the museum. Dr. Manoj Kumar Gautam, Deputy Director of the State Museum, highlighted that the Jhansi Development Authority (JDA) renovated the museum at a cost of Rs 10 crore under the Smart City Scheme. The museum, located near Jhansi Fort, charges an entry fee of Rs 50 per person and offers various exhibitions. The daily average of 155 visitors spikes on holidays, with 327 people enjoying the virtual helicopter ride last Sunday alone. The modernization efforts are creating significant interest among visitors.
Uttar Pradesh Tourism Minister Jaiveer Singh stated, “Digital technology is being used to make the youth and children aware of Bundelkhand and Jhansi’s glorious history in an engaging and enjoyable manner. The tourism department aims to share the bravery of Bundelkhand’s heroes with as many people as possible and will continue such initiatives in the future.”
