At 75, Salar Jung Museum reflects Hyderabad’s journey between heritage and progress

As Hyderabad marked 75 years of the Salar Jung Museum on Sunday, the celebrations served as a reminder that the city’s identity is shaped as much by its rich heritage and collective memory as by its aspirations for the future. The occasion also coincided with the 137th birth anniversary of Mir Yousuf Ali Khan, Salar Jung III.

Addressing the gathering, Governor Shiv Pratap Shukla said Hyderabad’s identity could not be reduced to the Charminar alone, arguing that the Salar Jung Museum occupied an equally important place in the city’s cultural consciousness. The museum is a living testament to Telangana’s rich historical and cultural heritage, he said, paying tributes to Nawab Mir Yousuf Ali Khan, whose vision and foresight had created a national treasure that continues to enrich generations.

Referring to the legendary Golconda diamonds, including the Koh-i-Noor, Hope and Regent diamonds, the Governor said the region had long enjoyed a global reputation for its treasures. Continuing that tradition, Salar Jung III had collected priceless works of art from Persia, Egypt, China, Japan and Europe, reflecting Hyderabad’s openness to the world.

The Governor also expressed confidence that the State government’s plans for rejuvenation and cleaning of the Musi River would add to the appeal of the historic heritage precinct.

Telangana Deputy Chief Minister Mallu Bhatti Vikramarka described the Salar Jung Museum as the soul of Hyderabad and the Musi as a stream of Hyderabad’s memories.

Mr. Vikramarka said the Telangana government is committed to restoring the long-neglected Musi River and transforming it into an international-standard riverfront comparable to the Thames in London and the Seine in Paris. He envisioned the Salar Jung Museum becoming the cultural crown jewel of the rejuvenated riverfront, with tourists travelling along the river, exploring heritage streets and engaging with historical artefacts.

Transport Minister Ponnam Prabhakar and Charminar MLA Mir Zulfiqar Ali also recalled the historical connection between the Salar Jung family and Hyderabad’s administration, noting that five Prime Ministers of Hyderabad had emerged from the illustrious family.

The museum will be organising multiple events till June 21 as part of the platinum jubilee celebrations.