The Maharashtra government has announced plans to construct a new “Maha Archives Building” on a 6,691 square metre plot in Bandra East, Mumbai, to preserve the state’s historical documents. As per reports, the new archives building will feature temperature and humidity-controlled archival chambers, a restoration section, a reprography division, and a modern research centre. The facility will also house an exhibition gallery and cater to historians from both India and abroad.
Expansion of Archives Directorate
The Directorate of Archives, part of the Cultural Affairs Department, was established in 1821 and is responsible for preserving historical records. It currently holds 10.5 crore documents out of the 17.5 crore in the state’s collection. These records have been stored at the Sir Cowasji Jehangir Readymoney Building since 1889, but space limitations and the need for advanced preservation techniques have highlighted the necessity for a new facility.
A vision for cultural preservation
In addition to the archives building, the Maharashtra government also plans to establish a Grand State Cultural Centre and State Museum in Mumbai. The cultural centre will feature an auditorium, art galleries, and a research centre, facilitating national and international cultural exchanges. The museum will house Maharashtra’s ancient artefacts, rare paintings, sculptures, manuscripts, textiles and weaponry, ensuring the preservation of the state’s rich cultural heritage for future generations.
