Indira Gandhi Rashtriya Manav Sangrahalaya (IGRMS), Bhopal

The Indira Gandhi Rashtriya Manav Sangrahalaya (IGRMS), also known as the National Museum of Humankind, is a unique cultural institution in Bhopal, Madhya Pradesh, and the largest ethnographic museum in India. Formally inaugurated in 1979 and operating as an autonomous institution under the Ministry of Culture, Government of India, IGRMS is spread over approximately 200 acres on the scenic Shamla Hills, overlooking the Upper Lake. The museum is dedicated to depicting the story of humankind in time and space, with a focus on the rich cultural diversity and living traditions of India’s tribal and rural communities. It features 8 open-air exhibitions that include recreated tribal habitats, a coastal village, a desert village, a Himalayan village, rock art heritage panels, a mythological trail, river valley culture exhibits, and a traditional technology park. These are complemented by 12 indoor galleries under the Veethi-Sankul complex and the Bhopal Gallery. IGRMS maintains a prehistoric landscape with evidence of human settlement directly within its premises, adding an exceptional archaeological dimension to the visitor experience. The museum’s reference library is rich in anthropological, archaeological, and museological literature, supporting research and education. Regular community events, cultural festivals, artist camps, and educational workshops make IGRMS a dynamic hub that bridges academic knowledge and living cultural heritage.