Museums are all about preserving history and showcasing art and this year the theme of World Museum Day, celebrated on May 18, is ‘Museums for Education and Research’.
While over the last few years, museums have been gaining popularity, it is also the celebs who post photos and videos on social media that adds a touch of glamour and intrigue, making them seem more trendy and helps attract more tourists and people.
Social media has undeniably crept into every corner of our lives, but in the case of museums, it's led to a positive transformation. Gone are the days of dusty halls and forgotten exhibits. Today, museums are thriving online, using social media to share captivating glimpses of their collections and spark curiosity among new audiences.
This World Museum Day, we bring you views of a few celebs from the Hollywood and Bollywood industries who have visited these museums and went fascinated by the Goan vibe and culture, which is more than just beaches and parties.
Adah Sharma, who missed her flight and had time to kill was in for a treat when she visited Big Foot in Loutolim. “I was in Goa for the weekend and my flight was delayed by six hours. So, instead of wasting time, we thought of exploring Goa’s history, culture, traditions, livelihoods and different professions. My team and I had such a great time at the Big Foot museum,” she said.
She added, “Our country has so many beautiful places to visit, from snow, deserts and even forests. Among these we also have heritage spots like the Big Foot Museum, which brings out what true Goa is all about. The Shiva Statue at the museum was my favourite part.”
In the north, it is MOG in Pilerne that draws admiration. “Museum of Goa is a very dynamic place to access art and culture,” said Deepti Naval, actor, while she was on a trip to Goa and visited Museum of Goa (MOG).
Gurucharan Das, author of India Unbound, decided to visit the state and after a visit to MOG called it inspirational. “It is inspiring and fascinating to walk amidst the sculptures and paintings at the Museum of Goa,” he said.
Pooja Bedi, who calls Goa her home, was overcome with awe. “MOG,” she said, “is a great place to connect with art!”
Museums are all about learning and that is what MOG has been doing. Sharada Kerkar, Operational Head, MOG, speaking to Gomantak Times Digital said, “Museums are educational spaces for learning, discovery and cultural understanding. And it is this aspect that we will be celebrating today.”
Arjun Rampal, along with his wife Gabriella Demetriades, paid a visit to Aguada Goa recently when they were in Goa.
Robert Di Niro who visited Goa Chitra, Benaulim in 2013, said, “This museum is a treasure trove and an amazing place. I just loved it. Every time I know of somebody visiting Goa, India, I highly recommend the Goa Chitra Museum.”
His daughter, Drena De Niro was very impressed with the documentation that was done and took keen interest in the research work that is being conducted by the museum.