Amulya Shodha Museum
The Amulya Shodha Museum is unique and fascinating in Hubli, Karnataka, India. The museum is dedicated to preserving and showcasing ancient artefacts, cultural objects, and traditional arts and crafts from North Karnataka.
The museum was founded by Shri Rajendra Desai, a philanthropist and collector of antiques who wished to showcase the rich heritage and cultural diversity of North Karnataka. The museum is named after his mother, Amulya Devi, and "Shodha" means research or exploration in the local language of Kannada.
The Amulya Shodha Museum is housed in a beautiful and spacious building designed in a traditional style with red clay tiles and wooden pillars. The museum has over 10,000 artefacts, ranging from ancient stone sculptures, bronze idols, and terracotta figurines to textiles, jewellery, musical instruments, and folk art.
The museum has a vast collection of sculptures from the Chalukya dynasty, which ruled the region from the 6th to the 12th century. These sculptures are of great historical significance and offer a glimpse into ancient Karnataka's rich cultural and artistic traditions.
The museum also has an impressive collection of paintings, including works by renowned artists such as Raja Ravi Varma, M.F. Hussain, and Jamini Roy. The museum also has an extensive collection of traditional crafts, such as pottery, weaving, and metalworking, still practised by local artisans.
Highlights display a recreated traditional house, showcasing people's way of life in North Karnataka in the past. The house has different rooms, each with its collection of artefacts and displays, such as kitchen utensils, furniture, and clothing.
The Amulya Shodha Museum is not just a museum but also a centre for research and learning. The museum has a library and research centre, which houses a vast collection of books, manuscripts, and documents on the history and culture of Karnataka.
Places To Visit Near Amulya Shodha Museum:
Unkal Lake:
Located just 5 kilometres from the Amulya Shodha Museum, Unkal Lake is a popular tourist spot known for its picturesque beauty and tranquil surroundings. Visitors can enjoy boating, walking along the lakefront, and watching the sunset over the water.
Chandramouleshwara Temple:
This ancient temple in Unkal village is dedicated to Lord Shiva and dates back to the 9th century. The temple features intricate carvings and sculptures and is a must-visit for history and architecture enthusiasts.
Nrupatunga Betta:
This hill, located about 7 kilometres from the museum, offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside and is a popular spot for trekking and hiking. At the top of the hill is a temple dedicated to Lord Shiva.
Siddharoodha Math:
This spiritual centre in Hubli is dedicated to the 19th-century saint Siddharoodha Swami. The math features a beautiful temple, a museum, and a library, and it is a great place to learn about the teachings and philosophy of the saint.
Indira Gandhi Glass House Garden:
Located in the heart of Hubli, this botanical garden is known for its colourful flower displays, lush greenery, and glass house. The park is popular for picnics, family outings, and photography.
Navilteerth Dam:
This dam, located about 40 kilometres from Hubli, offers breathtaking views of the hills and forests of the Western Ghats. Visitors can enjoy boating, fishing, and bird-watching at the dam.
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