Family Collection of the Late Countess Mountbatten of Burma, Building Partnerships for Life, Religion and Conservation, Homoeopathy for total and Safe Cure, The Pocket Book of Vastu, The Windsor Castle Cookery Book, Rajasthan, Ecotourism and Environment Handbook, Vaibhavpurna Jeevan ke liye Vastu Shastra, Planning for Power Advertising, Earth Design the Added Dimension, History of the Guides

Front cover of books

Heritage Conservation and Promotion

Locks, Keys, and Weights from the 19th and 20th Century: Treasures from Mewar's Past

The collection of locks, keys, and weights showcased here hails from the historic region of Mewar and dates back to the 19th and 20th centuries. These everyday objects were once integral to life in Mewar, reflecting the region's rich traditions and the skilled craftsmanship of their makers. Each piece stands out for its unique shape, size, and design, making them not just functional tools but also works of art.

Over time, these artifacts have naturally suffered from age and environmental exposure, displaying signs of rust, cracks, and other forms of deterioration common in antique metal objects. Recognizing their cultural and historical value, a dedicated conservation project is underway to ensure their preservation for future generations. This project involves detailed photography, documentation of each object's current condition, and the application of appropriate conservation treatments. These efforts are vital to safeguarding Mewar's tangible heritage, allowing these remarkable objects to tell their stories and inspire learning for years to come. By preserving and presenting these treasures, we aim to keep the legacy of Mewar alive and accessible, fostering a deeper appreciation for the artistry and history embedded in everyday objects of the past.

Celebrating the Living Heritage of Udaipur on the International Museum Day 2025

Theme: The Future of Museums in Rapidly Changing Communities

What does it mean to be a museum in today's fast-changing world? As technology evolves and societies shift, this question lies at the heart of this year's International Museum Day, observed worldwide on May 18th, 2025. Embracing the theme set by the International Council of Museums (ICOM) - "The Future of Museums in Rapidly Changing Communities", The City Palace Museum, under the aegis of the Maharana of Mewar Charitable Foundation (MMCF), proudly hosted a two-day celebration that reimagined what a museum can be: not just a space for preserving the past, but a space for active participation and living heritage.

On 17th and 18th May 2025, the museum came alive with colour, sound, craft, and community through the vibrant event "Discover the Art of Southern Rajasthan." This live exhibition brought together artisans from five districts - Chittorgarh, Udaipur, Pratapgarh, Rajsamand, and Dungarpur - each showcasing a unique traditional art form rooted in their region.

Highlights of the Arts on Display:

Kavad Art - Chittorgarh -From Bassi Village, this vibrant storytelling tradition combines carpentry, painting, and oral narratives. Artists craft portable wooden shrines - Kavads - out of mango, neem, or sheesham wood, carrying them from village to village to narrate epic tales from mythology and folklore.

Mandana Art - Dungarpur -Traditionally created by women on floors and walls during festivals and ceremonies, this sacred geometric art uses natural materials like rice flour, turmeric, and red ochre to form intricate, symbolic designs.

Thewa Art - Pratapgarh -Dating back to 1707, Thewa is a fusion of gold and glass. Thin sheets of 23-karat gold are intricately fused onto coloured glass to create scenes from mythology, court life, and nature - each piece taking nearly a month to complete.

Wooden Toys - Udaipur -A local tradition passed down through generations, Udaipur's handcrafted wooden toys reflect the region's creativity and heritage. Made from softwood, these toys are known for their playful forms and detailed craftsmanship.