Shankar's International Dolls Museum, Delhi

About Shankar's International Dolls Museum

Shankar International Dolls Museum is located in the heart of New Delhi, near the famous Connaught Place area. The museum was established in 1965 by India's famous political cartoonist K. Shankar Pillai did. It was established with the aim of promoting cultural exchange and understanding between nations through dolls. The museum houses the world's largest collection of dolls, with over 7,000 dolls from approximately 85 countries. These dolls represent different cultures, traditions, and regions from around the world. There are special collections, including the 'Nativity Collection' depicting scenes from the birth of Jesus, and a collection of dolls gifted to the museum by various dignitaries and diplomats. Shankar's International Doll Museum is not only a place of entertainment but also serves as an educational resource. It provides information about the diverse cultures and traditions of countries around the world.

Architecture of Shankar's International Dolls Museum

Shankar's International Dolls Museum covers an area of 5,184.5 square feet (481.66 m2). The museum is divided into two equal parts. Both sections contain more than 160 glass cases, each 1,000 feet long (300 m), mounted on the walls. One section has exhibits from Europe, America, Australia, New Zealand, the Commonwealth of Independent States, and the other section has exhibits from Asian countries, the Middle East, Latin America, Africa, and India.

Interesting facts about Shankar's International Dolls Museum

• The main collection includes gifts from the Prime Minister, Jawaharlal Nehru and several subsequent Prime Ministers, including Indira Gandhi and Rajiv Gandhi.
• The collection of dolls is classified into two parts. One part includes dolls collected from western countries like UK, USA, Australia, New Zealand, Commonwealth of Independent States and the other part includes dolls collected from other Asian, Latin American and African countries including India.
• The museum has an extensive and diverse collection of over 7,000 dolls from approximately 85 countries. Each doll represents the culture, clothing and traditions of its place of origin.
• The museum is globally renowned and has received recognition from international organizations for its contribution in promoting cultural exchange and understanding.

How to reach Shankar's International Dolls Museum