The Dr. Bhau Daji Lad Museum, located in Byculla, Mumbai, is the city’s oldest museum, originally established in 1855 as the Victoria and Albert Museum. Renamed in honor of Dr. Bhau Daji Lad, a philanthropist and historian, the museum showcases Mumbai’s rich cultural and industrial heritage. The museum is renowned for its exquisite 19th-century colonial architecture, featuring stunning interiors with gilded ceilings, Minton tiles, and intricate woodwork. It houses an extensive collection of artifacts, including rare maps, manuscripts, pottery, textiles, and models depicting Mumbai’s early development. The museum also exhibits traditional Indian craftsmanship, featuring decorative arts, metalwork, and dioramas illustrating life in the 19th century. In addition to its permanent collection, the museum regularly hosts contemporary art exhibitions, cultural programs, and educational workshops, making it a vibrant cultural hub. Following an extensive restoration, it reopened in 2008, earning recognition for preserving Mumbai’s artistic legacy. Situated near the Veermata Jijabai Bhosale Udyan (Rani Baug) and Zoo, the museum is an important landmark for history enthusiasts and tourists alike. With its blend of heritage and modern artistic expressions, the Dr. Bhau Daji Lad Museum continues to celebrate Mumbai’s historical evolution while promoting art and culture.

Table of Contents

Opening Timing & Entry Fees

The Dr. Bhau Daji Lad Museum is open to visitors daily from 10:00 AM to 5:30 PM, with the final entry allowed until 5:00 PM. It remains closed on Wednesdays and select public holidays.

Entry Fees:

Indian Nationals:

Adults: ₹20
Children (3-12 years): ₹10
Students (with valid ID): ₹10
Senior Citizens (above 60 years): ₹10
Police and armed forces personnel: ₹10
BMC Employees: ₹10

International Visitors:

Adults: ₹200
Children (3-12 years): ₹100

Children below 3 years and visitors with physical disabilities enjoy free entry

History of Dr. Bhau Daji Lad Museum

The Dr. Bhau Daji Lad Museum is Mumbai’s oldest museum, with a rich history dating back to the mid-19th century. Originally established in 1855 as the Victoria and Albert Museum, it was part of the British colonial efforts to promote education and preserve India’s artistic and industrial heritage. The museum was the result of efforts by prominent citizens, including Dr. Bhau Daji Lad, a noted physician, historian, and philanthropist, who played a key role in its development.

The museum building, designed in the Palladian and Renaissance Revival architectural styles, was completed in 1872 and inaugurated by the then Governor of Bombay, Sir Bartle Frere. It housed a remarkable collection of decorative arts, textiles, pottery, maps, and models showcasing Mumbai’s growth from a group of fishing villages to a bustling metropolis.

Over time, the museum fell into neglect, but a major restoration project from 2003 to 2008, led by the Mumbai Municipal Corporation, INTACH, and the Jamnalal Bajaj Foundation, restored its former grandeur. It reopened in 2008 as a center for heritage, art, and cultural exhibitions. Today, the museum continues to honor Dr. Bhau Daji Lad’s legacy by preserving Mumbai’s history while promoting contemporary art and education.

About Dr. Bhau Daji Lad

Dr. Bhau Daji Lad (1822–1874) was a renowned physician, historian, social reformer, and philanthropist from Maharashtra. Born as Ramkrishna Vithal Lad, he later adopted the name Bhau Daji. He was one of the first Indians to receive a medical degree from Grant Medical College, Mumbai, and became a leading doctor of his time.

Beyond medicine, Dr. Bhau Daji Lad was deeply passionate about history, archaeology, and social reform. He played a crucial role in documenting Mumbai’s early history and was actively involved in the Indian National Association for the Promotion of Science, which later became the Indian National Science Academy (INSA). He was also a strong advocate for education and social upliftment, supporting initiatives for women’s education and the abolition of social evils.

His most significant contribution was his involvement in the establishment of the Victoria and Albert Museum (now Dr. Bhau Daji Lad Museum) in Mumbai. He worked tirelessly to collect and preserve artifacts showcasing Mumbai’s cultural and industrial heritage. In recognition of his contributions, the museum was renamed in his honor after his death. His legacy lives on through the museum, which continues to celebrate Mumbai’s history, art, and craftsmanship.

Images of Dr. Bhau Daji Lad Museum

Historical artifacts of Dr. Bhau Daji Lad Museum

The Dr. Bhau Daji Lad Museum houses a remarkable collection of historical artifacts that offer insights into Mumbai’s rich cultural and industrial past. Some of the key artifacts include:

1. Rare Maps & Manuscripts:

Old maps of Bombay (now Mumbai) showcasing its transformation from seven islands into a major port city.
Handwritten manuscripts and documents from the 19th century, detailing trade, industry, and daily life.

2. Clay Models & Dioramas:

Intricately crafted clay models depicting traditional professions, including potters, weavers, and goldsmiths.
Miniature dioramas illustrating Mumbai’s social and cultural life in the 19th century, such as festivals, markets, and street scenes.

3. Decorative Arts & Crafts:

19th-century pottery, textiles, and metalwork showcasing traditional Indian craftsmanship.
A fine collection of silverware, wooden carvings, and Bidriware, a unique metal inlay craft.

4. Industrial & Trade Artifacts:

Objects representing Mumbai’s early industries, including printing, textile weaving, and shipbuilding.
Models of old mills, bridges, and railways, highlighting the city’s rapid industrialization.

5. Colonial-Era Collectibles:

Victorian-era furniture and objects from British Bombay, reflecting the city’s colonial history.
Portraits, sculptures, and artifacts associated with Dr. Bhau Daji Lad and other prominent figures of the time.

Exquisite 19th-Century Architecture of Dr. Bhau Daji Lad Museum

The Dr. Bhau Daji Lad Museum is an architectural gem, showcasing exquisite 19th-century design that reflects a blend of Palladian, Renaissance Revival, and Victorian styles. Originally built in 1872, the museum is one of Mumbai’s finest examples of colonial-era architecture, meticulously restored to its former grandeur.

Key Architectural Features:

1. Grand Facade & Structure

The museum’s exterior features a neo-classical design with elegant columns, decorative cornices, and arched windows.
The symmetrical layout and use of stucco and cast iron detailing highlight the Victorian influence.

2. Ornate Interiors:

The interiors are adorned with gilded ceilings, intricately carved wooden staircases, and elaborate moldings.
The Minton tile flooring, imported from England, adds to the museum’s luxurious charm.

3. Majestic Columns & Arches:

Tall Corinthian-style pillars and high arched ceilings create a sense of openness and grandeur.
The museum’s central hall is framed by elegant iron railings and balconies, offering a striking visual appeal.

4. Stunning Skylights & Chandeliers:

Large skylights allow natural light to enhance the exhibits while giving the interiors a warm, golden glow.
Victorian chandeliers add to the museum’s royal ambiance, reminiscent of 19th-century European halls.

5. Restoration & Preservation:

The museum underwent a major restoration between 2003 and 2008, preserving its architectural beauty while modernizing facilities.
Today, it stands as a UNESCO-award-winning heritage site, recognized for its outstanding conservation efforts.

Contemporary Art & Cultural Programs

The Dr. Bhau Daji Lad Museum is not only a historical and architectural landmark but also a vibrant hub for contemporary art and cultural programs. It regularly hosts exhibitions, performances, workshops, and educational initiatives, making it a dynamic space where heritage meets modern creativity.

1. Contemporary Art Exhibitions:

The museum collaborates with Indian and international artists to showcase thought-provoking contemporary art installations.
These exhibitions often explore themes of urbanization, identity, and cultural heritage, creating a dialogue between the past and present.
Notable exhibitions include works by contemporary artists such as Jitish Kallat, Atul Dodiya, and Nalini Malani.

2. Cultural & Performing Arts Programs:

The museum regularly organizes live music, dance, and theatrical performances, highlighting both traditional and contemporary art forms.
Events often include classical Indian dance performances, fusion music concerts, and experimental theatre productions.

3. Educational Workshops & Talks:

The museum conducts workshops on pottery, painting, calligraphy, and textile arts, offering hands-on experiences for visitors of all ages.
Lecture series and panel discussions feature renowned scholars, artists, and historians who discuss topics related to Mumbai’s history, art, and culture.

4. Community Engagement & Festivals:

Special programs for students, researchers, and underprivileged communities encourage cultural awareness and artistic expression.
The museum also participates in Mumbai’s art and heritage festivals, such as the Kala Ghoda Arts Festival and Mumbai Urban Art Festival.

5. Artist Residencies & Collaborations:

Emerging and established artists are invited for residencies and collaborative projects, creating site-specific artworks inspired by the museum’s collection and Mumbai’s history.
These projects help bridge the gap between historical artifacts and contemporary artistic interpretations.

Places to explore near Dr. Bhau Daji Lad Museum

If you’re visiting the Dr. Bhau Daji Lad Museum, there are several interesting places nearby that you can explore to make the most of your trip. Here are some top recommendations:

1. Veermata Jijabai Bhosale Udyan & Zoo (Rani Baug):

Located right next to the museum, this historic botanical garden and zoo is home to a variety of animals, including leopards, tigers, and exotic birds. It’s one of Mumbai’s oldest green spaces, perfect for a leisurely stroll.

2. Gloria Church, Byculla:

A stunning Gothic-style church, one of Mumbai’s oldest, known for its beautiful stained-glass windows and peaceful atmosphere.

3. Mahalaxmi Dhobi Ghat:

One of the world’s largest open-air laundries, where thousands of clothes are washed daily in traditional stone basins. A fascinating sight for photography enthusiasts.

4. Haji Ali Dargah:

A famous Islamic shrine built on a small island, offering stunning views of the Arabian Sea. It is a major spiritual and architectural landmark in Mumbai.

5. Mumbai Central and Crawford Market:

If you love shopping, Crawford Market is great for fresh produce, spices, and handicrafts. Mumbai Central is also home to great street food options.

6. Nehru Science Centre:

Perfect for science lovers, this interactive science museum has fascinating exhibits, including a planetarium and space-related displays.

7. Marine Drive & Girgaum Chowpatty:

One of Mumbai’s most iconic waterfront promenades, perfect for an evening walk. Enjoy Mumbai’s famous bhel puri and pav bhaji at Girgaum Chowpatty Beach.

How to reach Dr. Bhau Daji Lad Museum

Reaching the Dr. Bhau Daji Lad Museum is convenient as it is centrally located in Byculla, Mumbai, near the Veermata Jijabai Bhosale Udyan (Rani Baug) and Zoo. Here’s how you can get there:

1. By Train:

The nearest railway station is Byculla Station on the Central Line, just a 5-minute walk from the museum.
If traveling on the Western Line, you can get down at Mumbai Central Station and take a taxi or BEST bus (around 10 minutes away).

2. By Bus:

Several BEST buses stop near Byculla or Jijamata Udyan.
Bus numbers 7, 14, 25, 57, 66, 69, 85, 92, 305, 351, and 357 serve the area.

3. By Car / Taxi:

The museum is easily accessible by cab, auto-rickshaw, or private vehicle.
Parking is available near the Rani Baug Zoo entrance.

Dr. Bhau Daji Lad Museum Entry Timing & Fees