4 Museums that Unveil Ahmedabad's Cultural Heritage

Ahmedabad is a city that embraces Modernism by keeping its classical conventions intact, celebrating its local art, culture and traditions, which are well documented in carefully designed museums that dot the city. It is a perfect destination for today’s traveller who yearns for an immersive experience.

Here are some of its most popular cultural museums that you should visit while you're in town.

1. Gandhi Ashram: A Symbol of India's Freedom Struggle

The Gandhi Ashram, also known as the Sabarmati Ashram, is located on the banks of the Sabarmati River in Ahmedabad, Gujarat. Established by MK Gandhi in 1917, it served as one of the main centres of the Indian independence movement. The campus contains two buildings: Gandhi and Kasturba’s house and the museum.

Historical Significance

The ashram was the site from which Gandhi launched some of his most notable campaigns, including the famous Dandi March in 1930, a pivotal moment in the struggle for India's independence. One wall in the ashram recounts a detailed timeline of his life.

Minimalism and Austerity

Reflecting Gandhi’s philosophy of simple living, the ashram buildings are modest, with the most notable being Hriday Kunj, Gandhi’s personal cottage where he lived with his wife, Kasturba. This humble abode remains preserved as it was during Gandhi’s time.

The ashram houses a museum with a comprehensive collection of photographs, letters, and other artefacts related to Gandhi's life and the independence movement. The exhibits provide a deep insight into his philosophies and the struggles he led.

The ashram continues to promote Gandhi’s values through various educational programs, workshops, and events focused on peace, non-violence, and sustainable living. It also serves as a research centre for studying the life and works of Gandhi.

Visitor Information

• Opening Hours: The ashram is open to visitors every day from 8:30 AM to 6:30 PM.
• Entry: There is no entry fee, making it accessible to all.
• Location: Situated in the Sabarmati suburb of Ahmedabad, it is easily reachable by local transport.

For more detailed information, you can visit the Gandhi Ashram official website.

2. Calico Museum

Renowned as one of India’s most prestigious textile museums, the Calico Museum is an essential visit for anyone interested in the country’s rich heritage of fabrics. Established by the Calico Textile Mills in the 1940s under the guidance of Gira Sarabhai, the museum was inspired by her brother Vikram Sarabhai and the famous art historian Ananda Coomaraswamy.

Rich Tapestry of Textile Heritage

• Ancient Fabrics: The museum houses textiles dating back 2000 years, showcasing intricate weaves, vibrant colours, and detailed designs
• Diverse Collections: The exhibits are split into two main sections: religious fabrics and functional fabrics used in daily life

Historical Insights

• Cultural Evolution: Visitors can delve into the advanced art, culture, and lifestyle from the Mauryan period onwards, gaining a comprehensive understanding of the region’s historical textile practices.

Visiting Information

• Opening Hours: The museum is open every day except Mondays.
• Tour Bookings: To enhance the educational experience, visitors can book tours in advance through the Calico Museum website.

A visit to the Calico Museum offers an immersive journey through India's textile history, providing a deeper appreciation of the country's artistic and cultural advancements.

Whether you're a history buff, an art lover, or simply curious about the displays in Fouzdar House, the museum’s extensive collections are sure to fascinate and inspire.

3. Kite Museum

Did you know that kite-flying originated in China? India is next on the list of countries that love kite-flying! And did you know that Ahmedabad is the Kite Capital of India?

Housed in the ground floor of the most prestigious Sanskaar Kendra is the Kite Museum, also known as the Patang Kite Museum, celebrating Ahmedabad's love for kites.

History and Significance

It was established in 1985 and is dedicated to the preservation and promotion of the ancient craft of kite-making. The museum was founded by Bhanubhai Shah, an avid kite collector who sought to document and preserve the heritage of kite designing and flying — is an integral part of the cultural fabric in the region.

Traditionally, the kite festival marks the beginning of Uttarayan, celebrating the period between winter and summer solstice when the agricultural cycle begins.

The Documentary

As you enter, you can watch the short movie on kites that tells you the history and cultural significance of kite flying in Gujarat and other parts of the world. It emphasises the role of kites in festivals and celebrations. What is most amusing is that historically, kites were used as a means of communication. It is the perfect way to kickstart further learning about kites as you take the tour.

Collections

The museum is home to an array of kites, including rare and unique designs from India and around the world. The collection showcases kites made from various materials, including paper, nylon, and cotton. It features intricate designs and patterns, each with its own historical and cultural significance.

The museum also showcases the materials and methods used in kite-making, along with detailed descriptions denoting their cultural and symbolic meanings. Some kites on display are over a century old, highlighting the evolution of kite-making techniques and aesthetics over time.

International Kite Festival

Ahmedabad hosts the International Kite festival at the beginning of each year. At this time, enthusiasts from across India and nearby countries take part to showcase their talents in designing and flying kites.

This museum plays a crucial role in preserving the art and tradition of Indian kite-making. It attracts both local and international visitors, providing them with an understanding of the cultural importance and serves as a centre for learning and inspiration for kite enthusiasts and artists alike.

4. Shreyas Folk Museum

Also called the Lokayatan Museum, the Shreyas Folk Museum offers a captivating journey into the vibrant cultural heritage of Gujarat. Established in 1977 by the Shreyas Foundation, the museum aims to preserve and exhibit the rich handicraft traditions of Gujarat's diverse communities.

Extensive Folk Art Collection

The museum houses an impressive array of folk art, including intricate Rabari, Ahir and Mutwa embroidery, traditional textiles and costumes, tie-dye quilts, beadwork on fabrics, some intricately carved metal work including jewellery, and wood carvings. 

The Kalpana Mangaldas Museum housed in the same campus has a section dedicated to traditional puppetry and performing arts. This includes a collection of:

• Colourful puppets
• Festival masks
• Dolls
• Musical instruments used in folk performances such as bows
• Percussion and wind instruments used in classical and folk music

A section also displays lifestyle antiques, like:

• Pottery
• Agricultural tools
• Household items
• Ceremonial objects

This section gives you an insight into the daily lives and customs of an older agrarian and pastoral way of living. These artefacts reflect the artistic skills and refined cultural expressions of Gujarati communities.

The museum sits in a serene campus amid lush greenery, a charming example of Gujarati architecture, enhancing the Amdavadi feel. 

Visitor Information:

• Opening Hours: The museum is open from 9 AM to 12 PM and from 3 PM to 5 PM, every day except Sundays and public holidays.
• Location: Shreyas Foundation, Ambawadi, Ahmedabad.
• Contact: For more information, visitors can contact the museum at +91 79-2660-2084

Learn About Gujarat's Storied Culture

The city celebrates every aspect of its regaling civilisational heritage. If you're planning a visit, your wholesome experience of Ahmedabad should starts at the Fouzdar House itself!

The house is an exhibition, starting with its white walls that create a relaxed feel, handspun khadi curtains and upholstery, handwoven daris using locally sourced raw materials, handmade paper lamps, and framed antique fabrics. Each element tells a compelling story about Gujarat’s vibrant heritage.

For a more illustrated discovery of the socio-cultural anthropology of this region, stay at Fouzdar House and let your villa host help you explore these historical journeys with a guided tour of these thematic museums.

(Bear in mind - the entire city demands its siesta from 12.30 to 3 PM. Plan your visits accordingly!)