International Museum Day is being celebrated today. The day is celebrated annually to raise awareness about museums as a vital means of cultural exchange, cultural enrichment, and fostering mutual understanding, cooperation, and peace. This year’s theme for International Museum Day is Future of Museums in Rapidly Changing Communities. To increase public engagement with India’s cultural heritage, the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) has announced free entry for the public to all ASI monuments and museums across the country today.

The ASI has opened its 52 site museums and all ticketed monuments to the public without charge, aiming to encourage broader public participation. This initiative offers a unique opportunity to explore these priceless collections, many of which are vital to understanding India’s rich cultural and historical legacy. Talking to Akashvani News, visitors at the National Museum in New Delhi shared their experiences.

International Museum Day underscores the importance of museums in preserving cultural heritage, promoting education, and fostering dialogue between communities and generations. Having a Pan India reach with 3,698 protected monuments and sites, and 52 museums, ASI’s 26 sites are in UNESCO’s World Heritage highlighting ASI’s commitment in preserving and celebrating the nation’s rich historical legacy and architectural marvels.