The National Museum of Indian Cinema (NMIC) in Mumbai is a museum dedicated to the history of Indian films. It takes visitors from the silent era to modern cinema through objects, posters, equipment and interactive displays.
History
The museum was inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on 19 January 2019. It is located on Pedder Road in south Mumbai, in a complex that includes the heritage bungalow Gulshan Mahal and a newer glass building.
It was set up by the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting through Films Division. After Films Division was merged with the National Film Development Corporation (NFDC) in 2022, the museum came under NFDC.
Gulshan Mahal
Gulshan Mahal is a nineteenth century heritage building. Its galleries trace the early history of Indian cinema, including:
- The arrival of moving pictures in India in 1896
- Dadasaheb Phalke and Raja Harishchandra, the first full length Indian feature film, in 1913
- The silent era and early studios
- The coming of sound with Alam Ara in 1931
New Museum Building
The modern building has four main halls:
- **Gandhi and Cinema:** films and documentaries related to Mahatma Gandhi
- **Children’s Film Studio:** interactive exhibits on science, technology and the art of film making
- **Technology, Creativity and Indian Cinema:** cameras, editing and special effects
- **Cinemas Across India:** the variety of regional film industries
Visitors can see old cameras, projectors, costumes, scripts, posters and music records.
Also Read: IFFI Goa Guide: What Is the International Film Festival of India, Indian Panorama and How to Register | Alam Ara: The Story of India’s First Talkie Film and How It Changed Indian Cinema
Why visit
The museum is a good place for students, film lovers and families to understand how cinema grew in India, and how it reflects the country’s languages and cultures.
Visitor information
- The museum is generally closed on Mondays and on some public holidays.
- An entry ticket is charged, with concessions for students in some cases.
- Timings and ticket prices may change, so check the NFDC website or the museum’s official channels before going.
- Photography rules may vary inside the galleries.
How to reach
NMIC is on Pedder Road near Kemps Corner. The nearest local railway stations are Grant Road and Mumbai Central on the Western line. Taxis and buses are available.
Bottom line
The National Museum of Indian Cinema is a well curated journey through more than a century of Indian films. It is worth a visit for anyone interested in cinema.
Source / स्रोत: National Film Development Corporation of India, Press Information Bureau
