Mumbai: Maharashtra Governor Jishnu Dev Varma on Thursday inaugurated the ‘Governor’s Gallery of History and Archives’ at Lok Bhavan, unveiling a curated collection of photographs and archival documents spanning over 150 years. The gallery highlights key historical events, interactions with national leaders, and rare records from the colonial era to modern-day Maharashtra.
The newly inaugurated ‘Governor’s Gallery of History and Archives’ at Lok Bhavan offers a visual and documentary journey through more than a century of India’s political and administrative evolution. The gallery features carefully curated panels showcasing landmark moments, significant meetings with dignitaries, and rare archival material reflecting the legacy of the Governor’s residence.
During the inauguration, Governor Jishnu Dev Varma praised the initiative and emphasised the need to bring more historically significant documents and photographs into the public domain. Officials including Secretary to the Governor Dr. Prashant Narnaware and Public Relations Officer Umesh Kashikar briefed him on the importance and context of the exhibits.
The gallery has been developed in the historic British-era bunker at Lok Bhavan, the same site where Narendra Modi inaugurated the ‘Kranti Gatha’ gallery dedicated to Indian revolutionaries in June 2022. Visitors can access the new gallery after prior registration through the Lok Bhavan website.
A Glimpse Into 150 Years of History
The exhibits trace the evolution of Lok Bhavan—from its origins as the Government House during the Bombay Presidency to its role as the Raj Bhavan after independence, and its recent renaming in November 2025. The gallery presents panels covering key historical phases, including pre-independence, post-independence, and modern Maharashtra.
Among the highlights are rare references to visits by Lord Curzon and George V, as well as multiple visits by Mahatma Gandhi. Archival documents include a 1947 circular mandating “Vande Mataram” on Independence Day, a condolence message following Gandhi’s assassination, and a 1949 order replacing the portrait of King George VI with that of Mahatma Gandhi.
The gallery also showcases significant post-independence moments, including correspondence related to Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, a reception attended by Queen Elizabeth II in 1961, and the visit of astronaut Neil Armstrong in 1969. More recent history includes celebrations of India’s victory in the 2011 ICC Cricket World Cup.
Concept and Curation
The gallery has been conceptualised by PRO Umesh Kashikar, with design and curation by Nidhi Bolar, supported by the Karve Institute of Social Service. Senior officials and staff, including Joint Secretary S. Ramamoorthy and Comptroller Dr. Nishikant Deshpande, were present at the inauguration.
With its rich archival collection, the Gallery of History and Archives is expected to become a key attraction for visitors, offering insights into India’s political heritage and the evolving role of Lok Bhavan over the decades.
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Photo Courtesy: Lok Bhavan
