subject: Explore The History And The Heritage Of A Nation At Mangalores Seemanthi Bai Government Museum [print this page] Renowned state-wide as the only museum of its nature in Mangalore city, the Seemanthi Bai Government Museum, or Bejai Museum is more than just another popular attraction in Karnataka. Frequented by those with a flair for history and a hankering to know more about the great state of Karnataka and India, the museum is located in the core of the metropolis in charming Bejai, just 4km from Nehru Maidan. As the preserver and documenter of many an ancient artefact, the museum showcases innumerable items of interest and worth in the history of the country, as well as its home state. Named after the mother of celebrated British Raj V.R. Mirajkar, the museum provides valuable insights in to the rich cultural heritage of the region during its most prolific and tumultuous periods.
With exhibits dating as far back as the 16th century, the museum documents the evolution of Indias socio-cultural and political legacy throughout the ages. One of the museums most treasured items is the famed copper inscription bearing the hallowed verses of Keladi Venkatappa Nayaka. Believed to have been inscribed in 1624 A.D, this particular item is only one of many historic copper inscriptions that are displayed in the museum. Other highlights include metallic icons and ancient lamps, while a number of statues are also prominently showcased within the premises. Offering guests a look back through the ages to Indias turbulent past under the reign of colonialism, the museum also stocks a great number of foreign coins and currency belonging to the British East India Company, among many others. Coins originating in Pakistan are also found within its extensive collection of coins, which also trace the changes in the countrys political landscape.
Seemanthi Bai Government Museum also has something to offer for the art connoisseur who is interested in the cultural legacy of the city state. With over a hundred paintings decorating its walls, the museum is also a treasure trove for art lovers and art history majors. Painted by skilled hands of master painters and laymen who dabbled in the arts for recreational purposes, the venue pays equal homage to paintings of all origins regardless of the fame of the artists concerned.
Visitors in search of hotels that offer easy access to attractions in Mangalore should look no further than the Gateway Hotel Old Port Road Mangalore. Ideally situated overlooking the Gurupura and Nethravathi rivers and just 5 minutes from the Mangalore Central Station, this charming rest is truly one of the most conveniently- located Mangalore hotels in the region.
