Named as the Victoria and Albert Museum in 1872 (named after the one in London), it is the oldest museum in Mumbai. The story begins in the 1840s when Bombay came into East India Company hands. Dr. Buist, a collector conceived the idea of having a museum in Bombay. The idea took roots in and gradually, he was able to create the Central Museum of Natural History, Economy, Geology, Industry and Arts. Lord Elphinstone, the Governor of Bombay Presidency, was among its early patrons. In 1855, the museum had funds of Rs 6,000, a humble beginning.

The idea of having a museum that would house the rare objects was first pioneered in Mumbai by Ramkrishna Vitthal Lad, known to most as Bhau Daji Lad . He alongwith his colleagues and friends proposed the idea of a building for rare old objects.  The museum was christened as the Victoria & Albert Museum and was open in the year 1872. The museum is now owned by Mumbai municipal Corporation. As one enter into the museum, one feels transported to the Raj-era.The museum now is known as Bhau Daji Lad Museum.Housed within  the  Victoria gardens, which is now named as the Rani Jijamata Udyan (Rani Bagh). The museum, which earlier gave an old and eerie look, is now turning fresh and bright, thanks to the sustained endeavors of Indian National Trust for Art and Cultural Heritage, Mumbai (INTACH).

This museum showcases archaeological findings , maps and photographs that depicts the history of Mumbai.Constructed in Greco-Roman style, this museum attracts people who have keen interest in geographical and archeological findings. The museum uses bronze sculptures, metalware, weapons, fossils, 17th-century maps, reliefs of the city and a scale model of the Parsi Towers to illustrate Mumbai’s history. There is an elegant collection of clay models illustrating Indian types, costumes, and trades. There are bronze votives, fossils, minerals, delicate ivories and models of temples made from pith. The most eye-catching sight, however, is the elephant sculpture from Elephanta Island.

Where is Victoria and Albert musuem located?
91A, Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar Road, Byculla, Mumbai – 400027

What are the timings?

The musuem is open from 9:00 am to 5.30 pm (All days, except public holidays and Wednesdays)