Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Vastu Sangrahalaya (CSMVS)

Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Vastu Sangrahalaya, popularly known as CSMVS, is one of India’s premier cultural institutions and the finest museum in western India. Established in 1922 in the heart of Mumbai’s historic Fort area, the museum is housed in a magnificent Grade I Heritage Building, an outstanding example of Indo-Saracenic architecture designed by George Wittet. Its iconic dome, inspired by Gol Gumbaz in Bijapur, stands as one of Mumbai’s most recognisable landmarks. The museum’s collections span three principal sections: art, archaeology, and natural history, with over 70,000 exhibits that include rare Harappan artefacts, Mughal miniature paintings, decorative arts, ancient coins, and extensive natural history specimens. The Karl and Meherbai Khandalavala collection and the Coins of India gallery are among its notable special collections. CSMVS also houses India’s first Maritime Heritage Gallery, displaying objects related to navigation history. The museum earned the Urban Heritage Award from the Bombay Chapter of the Indian Heritage Society and was renamed in 1998 to honour the legendary Maratha warrior king. Surrounded by palm trees and formal gardens, CSMVS is a cultural hub that also offers educational programmes, workshops, and international exhibitions. It is open throughout the week and attracts scholars, tourists, and school groups from across India and around the world.