Member Parliament Gurmeet Singh Meet Hayer dedicates District Museum Sangrur to the public

Says; The museum is not just a building, but a living symbol of Punjab’s history and heritage MLA Narinder Kaur Bharaj graces the occasion As part of the Punjab Government’s ongoing efforts to preserve the rich cultural and historical heritage of the state, the District Museum, Sangrur has been dedicated to the public today after its renovation at a cost of approximately Rs 2.5 crore. Member Parliament Gurmeet Singh Meet Hayer attended the event as the chief guest, while MLA Narinder Kaur Bharaj was present as the special guest. Addressing the gathering, MP Gurmeet Singh Meet Hayer stated that the museum, located within Banasar Bagh in the heart of Sangrur city, is not merely a building but a living symbol of Punjab’s history and royal heritage. He said that the structure, built in Mughal and Rajasthani architectural styles, had remained closed for a long time due to conservation and restoration works. It has now been restored and reopened with renewed grandeur at a cost of around Rs 2.5 crore. He further highlighted that the museum houses rare and valuable artifacts associated with the rulers of the Jind State. Visitors can view personal weapons of Maharaja Gajpat Singh, Maharaja Bhag Singh, and Maharaja Sangat Singh, along with antique pistols, royal portraits, a gold-crafted kirpan, ancient coins, a copy of the Shrimad Bhagwat Purana, and other heritage items. The MP also emphasized the historical significance of the building, noting that it once served as the Darbar Hall where the administration of the Jind State was conducted and from where Maharaja Ranbir Singh ruled for a significant period. He added that the foundation of this building was laid in 1870 by Maharaja Raghbir Singh. The magnificent gold work on the ceiling was executed by Iranian artisans, while the renowned architect Bhai Ram Singh designed the intricate wooden carvings and decorations. Major restoration works carried out include conservation of ceiling artwork and gold leafing, structural strengthening using lime and concrete, preservation of heritage chandeliers, installation of brass doors, sandstone flooring, strengthening of the foundation, polishing of wooden elements, and modernization of lighting arrangements. On this occasion, MLA Narinder Kaur Bharaj said that the museum is a symbol of Sangrur’s identity, and its reopening will not only help preserve historical heritage but also connect the younger generation with their roots. She added that the Punjab Government is continuously making efforts to conserve heritage sites. The chief guest and other dignitaries also visited the museum and reviewed its various galleries, expressing happiness over its reopening. On this occasion, researcher Rajiv Jindal, who has conducted extensive research on the Jind State, Sangrur, and its architectural heritage, shared valuable insights about various historical buildings of Sangrur. Deputy Commissioner Rahul Chaba, SSP Sartaj Singh Chahal, SE (Tourism Department) B.S. Chana, along with officials from various departments, dignitaries, and a large number of city residents, were present on the occasion.