Kolkata, 19 July (H.S.): Union Home and Cooperation Minister Amit Shah on Sunday inaugurated India's first immersive Museum of Words at the National Library campus in Kolkata. Developed by the National Library under the Union Ministry of Culture, the museum showcases India's rich linguistic heritage, scripts, and literary traditions through cutting-edge immersive technology.

Addressing the inaugural ceremony, Shah said that the language of a nation reflects its culture, history, and heritage. He remarked that a country's civilisation and values can be understood through its languages. Urging students to learn at least one additional Indian language besides their mother tongue, he said such an effort would help them better appreciate India's cultural diversity.

Highlighting the importance of libraries, the Home Minister said the future of a nation is determined not only by the number of students enrolled in colleges and universities but also by the number of people who regularly use libraries to acquire knowledge. He added that a strong reading culture is essential for building an intellectually enriched society.

Referring to Bengal's rich intellectual and cultural legacy, Shah said the state has produced several eminent writers, scientists, revolutionaries, and scholars who have made lasting contributions to the nation. He expressed confidence that West Bengal would once again play a leading role in India's development, adding that he had been closely observing the state's progress over the past nine months and that it was steadily emerging as a beacon of progress for the country.

Praising the BJP government in the state, Shah said the vision of building Sonar Bangla under the leadership of Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari would certainly be realised.

In its first phase, the Museum of Words presents the diversity of Indian languages, scripts, and literary traditions through an immersive experience rather than a conventional exhibition. Visitors can explore the evolution of Indian languages using digital displays, holograms, motion sensors, and other advanced interactive technologies.

The museum features nine galleries dedicated to the history of Indian languages, the evolution of scripts, literary traditions, and their influence on Indian civilisation. It showcases the rich heritage of India's 22 Scheduled Languages, tracing their journey from oral traditions and ancient manuscripts to printed literature and the digital age. The initiative aims to preserve, promote, and present India's linguistic diversity as a living cultural heritage for future generations.

Hindusthan Samachar / Satya Prakash Singh