Virasat-e-Khalsa

Virasat-e-Khalsa is a museum located in Anandpur Sahib, Punjab, India. The museum is dedicated to the rich history and culture of Punjab and Sikhism. It was inaugurated in November 2011 and has since become a significant tourist attraction in the region.

History

The idea for the Virasat-e-Khalsa was first conceived in 1999 by the Punjab Government. The project was designed by Israeli architect Moshe Safdie and the construction was completed in 2011. The museum was inaugurated by the then Chief Minister of Punjab, Parkash Singh Badal.

Architecture

The architecture of Virasat-e-Khalsa is a blend of traditional and modern design elements. The complex consists of two functionally integrated sets of buildings, separated by a ravine and connected by a ceremonial bridge. The western complex, centered around a reflecting pool, houses the museum galleries, while the eastern complex contains a library, auditorium, and temporary exhibition galleries.

Exhibits

The museum houses a variety of exhibits that depict the history and culture of Punjab and Sikhism. These include a series of multimedia exhibits that tell the story of the Sikh Gurus, the Sikh Kingdom, and the Punjab diaspora. The museum also features a collection of artifacts, including ancient scriptures, weapons, and traditional Punjabi clothing.

Recognition

Since its inauguration, Virasat-e-Khalsa has received several awards for its architecture and exhibits. In 2013, it was awarded the Museum of the Year by the Museum Association of India. In 2018, it was recognized as the most visited museum in India by the World Book of Records.

See Also

• Anandpur Sahib
• Sikhism
• Punjab, India