Indian Independence Day

Since we have been in Alma block, we have managed to put together temporary exhibitions using our collections, archives and photographs. We often tie it into a significant anniversary or use a particular theme to develop an idea. To make these exhibitions happen, we have to apply for external funding and make it part of a bigger project.

One such project was our summer exhibition in 2017 which focussed on India. The largest part of our photographic collection focuses on the Indian subcontinent, with our earliest photos taken in the 1870s right up to the 1940s. In 2017, India celebrated 70 years of independence and Pakistan celebrated its 70th birthday. This seemed a great opportunity to use our collections to focus on the Regiment in India as well as highlight aspects of Indian culture as part of the celebration.

The exhibition entitled 'Soldiers of the Raj' was designed by Andy at BK Screenprint using text written and researched by staff, accompanied by photos from the collection. Individual panels were given different bright colours and the backdrop was decorated with indian patterns. We wanted the exhibition to be bright and colourful, to give an Indian feel to the room. 

Tomorrow is the 74th Indian independence day and it made me think of this great project. Funded by Heritage Lottery funds, the exhibition was accompanied by a great programme of summer activity including Indian dancing, puppet show and Indian-themed creative activities. It was a fantastic exhibition to research, using a wide range of items from the Museum, and fun to plan and design.We look forward to many more such projects in the future.

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