On 7 February 2025, a visit to the National Crafts Museum near Pragati Maidan was organised for the students of classes I and II of The Indian School-Second Shift. An enthusiastic group of 42 students, accompanied by two teachers, embarked on the excursion, gaining the opportunity to explore a variety of art from different historical periods.
The visit provided an opportunity to observe a diverse range of art forms exhibited across several galleries, such as the Textile Gallery, the Gallery of Popular Culture, Tribal and Rural Crafts, and the Gallery of Courtly Crafts.
A short film - highlighting one of Delhi's oldest museums and its role as a hub for art and craft - was presented to the students in an audio-visual room with seating for 100. The film aimed to familiarise the children with clay art and India’s traditional handicrafts, sparking curiosity about the country’s rich cultural diversity.
After the orientation, the well-informed young visitors were led to a village complex that showcased the art and culture of rural and tribal India. It was remarkable to experience such peace and serenity amidst bustling city life.
The students were delighted to observe various types of dwellings, such as the Gond hut and the Kullu hut, and they gained insights into how these structures have evolved over the ages. They were also impressed by the skill and materials used by artisans in constructing courtyards and shrines across different parts of India.
In addition, the students toured the permanent exhibition of traditional textiles, where they admired an impressive display of ancient artefacts - including looms and examples of traditional Indian embroidered, printed, and woven textiles.
The museum also houses an exquisite collection of textiles, featuring Kantha, Phulkari, and Chikankari from various states. The students admired the rich variety of sarees crafted using traditional techniques such as Bandhani, Patola, and others.
The pottery section excited the students by offering an opportunity to participate in clay modelling, while the souvenir shop - with its display of ornaments, wooden toys, shawls, and embroidered kurtis - captured the attention of the young visitors.
The students returned to School joyful and content, their minds enriched with vivid impressions of real India. Their hearts were undoubtedly richer, and the objectives of the trip were not only met but exceeded expectations. The visit not only heightened their awareness of India’s diverse crafts but also offered a window into the artisans’ world, where creativity seamlessly intertwines with tradition. It allowed the students to appreciate the spaces that house these treasures and to understand the holistic nature of artistic expression.
Overall, the excursion was a remarkable learning experience and a wonderful opportunity to discover the cultural heritage of our nation.
In the Press
Admissions
