Gandhi Smarak Sangrahalaya in West Bengal: A Display of Mahatma Gandhi's Life and Philosophy!

The Gandhi Smarak Sangrahalaya (Gandhi Memorial Museum) in Barrackpore, West Bengal is a significant institution dedicated to preserving the legacy of Mahatma Gandhi. Established in 1949, under the guidance of the Gandhi Smarak Nidhi, an organisation that aims to spread Gandhi’s philosophies and promote the principles of non-violence and truth, this museum not only serves as a memorial but also as an educational resource, inspiring visitors with Gandhi’s teachings and ideals. 

Barrackpore is a place where Gandhi spent some time during his visit to West Bengal in 1946. This location holds historical importance as it is here that he interacted with various leaders of the Indian freedom struggle. Hence, this location was chosen to feature a variety of Gandhi’s exhibits, including photographs, personal belongings and documents that chronicle his life and work. 

Exhibits and Collections

The exhibits at the Gandhi Smarak Sangrahalaya showcase a wide range of artefacts, including a rich collection of photographs depicting various stages of Gandhi’s life, from his early days in South Africa to his leadership in the Indian independence movement. His original documents and writings that provide insight into Gandhian philosophies and thoughts are also present at this museum. Along with them, Mahatma's personal belongings have also been preserved. 

Various galleries store some of the great works of and by Gandhi. The Mural Gallery made by Professor Dhirendranath Bramha, a renowned Artist at Government Art College, Kolkata depicts an 81-foot running mural painting portraying the life of Mahatma and the Saga of the Indian Independence Movement. 

A gallery on Mahatma Gandhi and the Indian Freedom Movement depicts the life and activities of Mahatma Gandhi and the history of the Indian Freedom Movement in 12 panels along with photographs and labels. The story is presented through various important historical phases of our country including the Indian Renaissance, The Great Mutiny of 1857, the Peasant Movement, The Indian National Congress, The Partition of Bengal, Days of Bengal Partition, Mohan to Mahatma, Salt Satyagraha, Quit India Movement, Azad Hind Fauz, Independence and Gandhi’s Assassination

The Bengal Gallery, through photographs and write-ups, shows Gandhi's connection and love for Bengal and Bengali. The Diorama Gallery comprises three dioramas on various life events of Mahatma Gandhi, a 3D relief painting and a wall painting of the Swadeshi Movement. A tabletop shows a spinning wheel (charkha) and hand-spun threads by various National Leaders, including Mahatma Gandhi and Kasturba Gandhi.

The museum also includes a library containing books and publications related to Gandhi’s life, philosophy, and the broader context of the Indian independence movement. In addition to its exhibitions, the Gandhi Smarak Sangrahalaya actively engages with the community through various educational programs. Workshops, seminars, and cultural events are regularly organised to promote Gandhi’s teachings on peace, non-violence, and social justice. These programs aim to inspire a new generation to embrace Gandhi's principles in their lives. 

The museum is open to the public on all days, except Wednesday. 

Timing: 11.00 AM to 5:00 PM

Entry Fee: Rs. 10 (above 10 years) for Indians, Rs. 50 for foreigners

Special Discount for Group Visit of Students - Rs. 5 per student in group (minimum 25 students in group).