The proposed Shahjahanabad Museum at a historic haveli near Lahori Gate in Old Delhi has received preliminary approval from Delhi Mayor Pravesh Wahi, clearing the way for a formal agreement between the Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD) and the Indira Gandhi National Centre for the Arts (IGNCA).
The museum is planned as a public institution focused on the history, architecture, food traditions and everyday culture of Shahjahanabad, the walled city established during the Mughal period. The formal agreement between the MCD and IGNCA is expected to be signed soon, after which work on developing the museum will begin.
Under the proposed arrangement, the MCD will provide space in the Lahori Gate haveli. IGNCA will prepare the gallery design and select the historical objects and other material to be displayed. The project is expected to operate on an entry-fee basis, although the report does not specify the proposed ticket rates or the timeline for opening the museum.
The building dates to 1929 and was originally used as a private residence. It was later occupied by an MCD dispensary before being converted into a store room. Its roof, jharokhas and balconies had suffered damage over time. Former Rajya Sabha member Vijay Goel subsequently funded restoration work on the property.
According to an MCD senior official cited in the report, the museum will present Old Delhi’s major landmarks and urban institutions, including the Red Fort, Jama Masjid, Town Hall, traditional havelis and temples associated with different faiths. It will also document the markets of Chandni Chowk, local food traditions and the lifestyle of the historic neighbourhood.
The planned displays are expected to combine historical objects, handicrafts, explanatory panels and a digital database with audio and video presentations. Proposed galleries will cover the Mughal period, the language of Shahjahanabad, its food culture, customs and social traditions. The project therefore involves both the adaptive reuse of an existing heritage building and the creation of a new public-facing cultural facility in one of Delhi’s most heavily visited historic areas.
The first floor is planned to include a souvenir shop and a cafeteria serving food associated with Old Delhi. The source report does not provide details on the design approvals, conservation standards, operating agency or arrangements for managing visitor movement around the Lahori Gate and Chandni Chowk area.
The next formal milestone is the signing of the agreement between the MCD and IGNCA. Construction, gallery development and the museum’s opening schedule are expected to follow that administrative step.
