Haryana Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini has directed that the upcoming Rakhigarhi museum feature a replica of the geographical expanse of ancient 'Akhand Bharat' (undivided India) to illustrate the reach of Rakhigarhi's heritage, enabling visitors to understand the broader civilisational landscape of that era. The directive was issued during a high-level review meeting chaired by Saini on Thursday evening in Chandigarh to assess the progress and design of the world-class Site Museum and Interpretation Centre being developed at Rakhigarhi.
International Standards for Global Showcase
Saini instructed officers to develop the museum in accordance with international standards, aiming for Rakhigarhi to emerge not merely as an archaeological site but as a global centre showcasing India's ancient civilization, cultural heritage, and knowledge traditions. The meeting was attended by Chief Secretary Anurag Rastogi, Commissioner and Secretary of Heritage and Tourism Dr Amit Agrawal, Deputy Principal Secretary to CM Dr Yashpal, and Deputy Director of Haryana Archaeology and Museums Dr Narender Parmar.
Advanced Digital and Immersive Technologies
Dr Amit Agrawal briefed the Chief Minister on the project's future roadmap, stating that the Interpretation Centre and Site Museum are being conceived beyond the conventional museum model, with extensive use of advanced digital, electronic, and audio-visual technologies. Visitors will not only view archaeological remains but will also be able to experience the lifestyle, culture, and social organisation of the 'Saraswati–Sindhu Civilization' through immersive modern technology.
The complex is being developed over an area of approximately 100,000 square feet. Five theme-based galleries will be established on both the ground and first floors, presenting various dimensions of the 'Saraswati–Sindhu Civilisation' through state-of-the-art technology. These galleries will comprehensively showcase the seven mounds of Rakhigarhi, phases of archaeological excavations, significant artefacts, urban planning, residential architecture, streets, drainage systems, water management, grain storage, trade and commerce, livelihoods, social life, and technological and cultural achievements of the period.
Orientation Gallery and Experiential Learning
The orientation gallery will provide detailed insights into the 'Civilisation of the Seven Rivers' and the evolution of the 'Saraswati–Sindhu Civilisation'. Short films, digital projections, 3D presentations, and other advanced interpretive tools will enable visitors to understand the civilization's story in an engaging and accessible manner. The Interpretation Centre will also feature experiential learning activities, particularly for children and young visitors. They will be able to observe and understand the process of making ancient seals, study replicas of bricks, artefacts, and other historical objects, and participate in traditional games and interactive activities.
Ongoing Excavations and Tourism Potential
Archaeological excavations are currently under way at three of Rakhigarhi's mounds. The museum will document the various phases of excavation, significant discoveries, and how these findings have deepened understanding of world history and Indian civilization. Situated close to National Highway-152, Rakhigarhi possesses immense tourism potential. A government spokesperson said, “Upon completion, the project is expected to emerge as one of the country’s premier tourism, cultural and educational destinations. It is also expected to generate new employment opportunities locally and accelerate the region’s economic development.”
Rs 90 Crore Approved by Union Finance Ministry
Officers informed that the Union Ministry of Finance has approved Rs 90 crore for the project, under which the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) will develop visitor amenities, including protective shelters and other essential infrastructure, to ensure tourists can explore the archaeological site in a safe, convenient, and authentic environment. The Chief Minister emphasized that the museum's objective is not merely to display history but to bring it to life for future generations, ensuring families, students, researchers, and visitors from India and abroad leave with a meaningful understanding of India's thousands-year-old civilisation, presented through a contemporary and immersive perspective.
