The Raja Dinkar Kelkar Museum, which is tucked away in the center of Pune, Maharashtra, is a reminder of India’s rich and varied cultural past. Dr. Dinkar G. Kelkar founded the museum in 1962 as the result of his life’s labor, to conserve items that capture the spirit of Indian daily life and artistic traditions. The museum, which bears the name of his only son Raja, who died young, provides tourists with a rare window into the nation’s history.
History And Significance

Dr. Dinkar Kelkar, who spent more than 60 years gathering artifacts from various regions of India, founded the museum in 1962. His goal was to establish a repository that honors Indians’ daily lives. As Dr. Kelkar’s enthusiasm for conserving cultural heritage grew, the Pune Raja Dinkar Kelkar Museum’s modest collection quickly grew. It is currently one of Maharashtra’s most well-known museums.
More than merely a collection of artifacts, the Raja Dinkar Kelkar Museum in Pune, Maharashtra, serves as a symbol of India’s rich cultural past. The everyday lives, traditions, and artistic expressions of people from different parts of India are reflected in the museum’s displays. A particular topic is displayed in each gallery, such as antique kitchenware, traditional musical instruments, or elaborately preserved doors and windows.
5 Reasons To Visit Raja Dinkar Kelkar Museum

Over 22,000 objects make up the museum’s outstanding collection, of which about 2,500 are always on exhibit. These artifacts fall into a number of categories, such as:
- Sculptures: The elaborate workmanship of ancient Indian artists is displayed in these 14th-century stone and wood sculptures.
- Musical Instruments: India’s rich musical legacy is revealed through a wide variety of instruments, some of which are owned by well-known musicians.
- Textiles: Showing the development of Indian fashion since the 15th century, the textile wing includes hand fans, Paithani sarees with genuine gold zaris, and royal clothing.
- Weapons and Armor: A vast array of swords, spears, shields, and other weapons offers insight into India’s martial customs.
- Household Items: Commonplace items like furniture, kitchenware, and lighting capture the essence of traditional home life.
The restored Mastani Mahal, one of the museum’s most striking displays, gives guests an insight into the lavish way of life during the Peshwa period.
With its elaborately carved archways, lofty ceilings studded with rare chandeliers, and a design that skillfully combines traditional Indian aesthetics with useful museum spaces, the Raja Dinkar Kelkar Museum itself is an architectural wonder. Every gallery has been carefully chosen to offer an immersive experience that lets guests explore India’s diverse cultural heritage.
 Raja Dinkar Kelkar Museum Pune Timings
Day | Timing |
---|---|
Monday | 10:00 am – 5:30 pm |
Tuesday | 10:00 am – 5:30 pm |
Wedesday | 10:00 am – 5:30 pm |
Thursday | 10:00 am – 5:30 pm |
Friday | 10:00 am – 5:30 pm |
Saturday | 10:00 am – 5:30 pm |
Sunday | 10:00 am – 5:30 pm |
Entry Fee: Rs. 20 for Indians and Rs. 200 for Foreigners.
How To Reach Raja Dinkar Kelkar Museum

The museum is conveniently accessible by a number of transit options due to its central Pune location:
- By car/Taxi: The most practical way to get around Pune is by automobile or taxi.
- By Bus: A number of bus lines operated by the Pune Municipal Corporation make stops close to the museum.
- By Train: The Pune Junction train station is around 4 km from the museum.
- By Air: Pune International Airport, which is roughly 12 kilometers away, is the closest airport.
Summary!
With its vast collection of antiquities, the Raja Dinkar Kelkar Museum provides visitors with a singular window into India’s history and is a tribute to the nation’s rich cultural legacy. Future generations will be able to enjoy and benefit from India’s many artistic traditions thanks to Dr. Kelkar’s commitment to conserving these treasures.
Have you visited this place? What are your thoughts on it ? Make sure to share your opinions with us!
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