Overseas Donations

A minuscule lane, one among the many in the bustling, momentous city of Pune in Maharashtra, is home to Raja Dinkar Kelkar Museum, a rare anthology of Indian artefacts that echo myriad tales of a nostalgic legacy within the majestic archways and corridors. It is the one-man collection of Late Dr. D.G. Kelkar (1896 -1990). 'Kaka', as Dr. Kelkar was affectionately known dedicated his collection to the memory of his only son `Raja’ who died an untimely death. It is a collection of about 23,000 priceless artefacts which mirrors the everyday life of India’s millions. 

The impressive Museum collection of 23,000 + priceless artifacts recall the historic Indian culture and traditions, which gently lead to more and more treasures. The Museum contains variety of every day artifacts, which includes artifacts like Lamps, Palanquins, Carved Woodwork, Tin ware, Combs, Bowls, Stones, Hookahs, Locks, Spittoons, Musical Instruments, Miniature Paintings, Glass Paintings, lime containers, Intricately Carved Wooden Doors and Windows, Ancient Dwellings, Nut-cutters, Figurines, Bronzes, Arms and Armours, Ivory, Puppets, Kitchen Utensils, Textile etc. The rich collection from this Museum reflects the elegance of Indian craftsmanship as well the vivid imagination of the artists. The Mastani Mahal rebuild as is in the premises of this Museum depicts the story of love between Bajirao Peshwa I and his legendary beautiful beloved wife Mastani.

You may be aware that being a public space since 17th March, 2020 to 9^th January, 2021 and then since 4^th April, 2021 to 21^st October, 2021 and afterwards since 10^th January, 2022 till date the Museum remains closed due to the lock down under Covid 19. Since then, on one hand the Museum has lost its Revenue out of Gate Money completely and on the other hand there is no guarantee of when and how much Maintenance Grant that the State Government of Maharashtra would release for the Financial Year 2021-22 and onwards.