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Housed in a classic colonial building 125 years old on Bander Road in Vijayawada the Victoria Museum built to celebrate the coronation jubilee of UK’s Queen Victoria’s in 1877 is an important repository of the history of the coastal Andra region. As with all museums the Victoria Museum is also charged with the collection, preservation and showcasing of antiquities, tools of ancient industry and handicrafts mainly from the South Indian region to be enjoyed and appreciated by the public and for the purpose of research. The museum’s admirable collection of artifacts showcases several aspects of India’s illustrious history from prehistoric to more recent times. However one of the most remarkable incidents to take place within the premises had nothing to do with ancient artifacts. It was here in 1921 that a meeting was hosted by the Congress Party to decide on the party’s new flag. The design was presented to Mahatma Gandhi who added a wheel to the tri colour which eventually became the national flag of independent India. The museum itself is a charming building with a brick exterior with arches and slim towers in the Indo-Saracenic style. In the heart of the city it is set in a garden in which several pieces of statuary are scattered about. A huge portrait of Queen Victoria dominates the entrance hallway. The museum’s collection includes stone implements used by early humans during the Lower Paleolithic Period and the Mesolithic Period as well as pottery and tools form the Neolithic and Megalithic periods that were found in and around the Krishna District. Among the many Buddhist artifacts are 3rd and 4th century carvings from Amaravathi and Dupadu and limestone and black granite images of the Buddha from Alluru and Nelakondapally. Other interesting pieces on display are images of various Hindu deities in the Chalukyan style and images found in Motupalli, Penuganchiprolu, Jujjuru and Kondapalli that are in the Kakatiyan style. The museum also has an interesting collection of miniatures of the Deccan school and water colours and oils by well known modern Indian artists. Other artifacts of note include a numismatic collection of Bahamani and Vijayanagar coins, gold and silver Qutub Shah coins, bronzes from the Vijayanagar and Nayaka periods, Bidriware inlaid with gold and silver, a small armoury with spears, shields and small arms from Asaf Jahi and Golconda rulers of the 16th and 17th centuries. You will also see a small collection of blue and white Persian porcelain ware, Kalankani textiles from the 17th and 18th centuries, 18th century headstones from European graves, 1st and 2nd century stone inscriptions from Andra Pradesh, copper plate inscriptions and ancient palm leaf manuscripts. The museum’s varied and interesting collection reflects a cross section of the history of India through several centuries and all exhibits can be viewed free of charge. The museum is certainly performing the worthy function of laying before the public some of the extraordinary artifacts and objects that define the culture and heritage of the country. In one of the best city locations close to commercial and business areas, transport hubs, attractions and the city airport The Gateway Hotel MG Road Vijayawada is a boon to business and leisure travelers as it is equipped with contemporary facilities and amenities required by modern travellers. The selection of comfortable rooms and suites, availability of high speed internet and wi fi throughout the hotel, the leisure facilities and dining options makes this one of the best hotels in Vijayawada. Stay at this modern Vijayawada hotel and experience relaxation and peace of mind.
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