Explore Gujarat’s Smritivan Museum, Shortlisted For UNESCO

In 2022, Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi inaugurated the Smritivan Earthquake Memorial Museum in Gujarat. Smritivan, which in English means Forest of Memories, is built over a wide area of over 470 acres, located on a small hill, Bhujiyo Dungar in Bhuj. It is a place of pilgrimage, praise and tribute for the resilience and sacrifice of the people of Kutch who lost their lives in the Earthquake in 2001. This Memorial has 50 check-dam reservoirs that house the nameplates of almost 13,000 victims of the 2001 earthquake. The memorial consists of a Sun-Point that overlooks the city, the sunrises and the sunsets from atop the Bhujiyo Dungar.

The Smritivan Museum in Kutch, Gujarat, features seven themed blocks, including Rebirth, Rediscover, Restore, Rebuild, Rethink, Relive, and Renew. These blocks symbolize the journey from tragedy to recovery. The museum describes sustainable practices, integrates with nature, and celebrates local heritage, aligning perfectly. 

Brief History:

One of the most horrific incidents in Indian history is the Gujarat earthquake in 2001, which left the entire nation in shock. In terms of numbers, it had impacted a total of 15,23,562 individuals from the Kutch district alone, killing around 12,932 people and affecting 890 villages. In addition to food and water supplies, it had also devastated the stock of rations in homes, and other necessities. Temples and historic buildings were demolished. It goes beyond the tangible harm that can be measured or observed. It had a lifetime impact on everyone who survived — mentally, emotionally, and physically. 

Gujarat has emerged as one of the best states in the country, and the credit goes to the courage of its people, and the determination of the government. And the museum is one of them and was also the dream project of the then Chief Minister, and the now honourable Prime Minister of India – Shri Narendra Modi. The project was also inaugurated by the Prime Minister himself, on 28th August 2022. In a public speech after the inauguration, he also requested the people of Kutch, and their guests to not leave Kutch without paying a visit to the Smritivan Earthquake Memorial, and Museum.

Highlights of the Museum 

• The museum complex includes a restored 300-year-old fort and a solar power plant.
• Extensive tree plantations and a dedicated museum expanded to 11,500 square meters.
• The museum offers educational and interactive exhibits across seven different blocks.
• Each block focuses on themes such as the history of Earth’s evolution, the resilience of Kutch, and the innovative spirit of Gujarat’s people.
• There is a special theatre that showcases the 2001 earthquake experience, providing insights into earthquakes as natural disasters.

Seven Blocks 

Restore: People from all walks of life were affected by the earthquake and here we recount the tragic events of the 2001 Bhuj earthquake representing the immediate rescue and relief activities that followed. Touch, listen and immerse into the diverse testimonies and recollections of earthquake survivors, and the memories of the loved ones of victims.  

Rebuild: This block gives us a comprehensive understanding of the collective process of rebuilding, reconstructing and reviving Gujarat for long-term disaster moderation. 

Rethink: The Rethink Block defines the knowledge of global disaster response, and preparedness measures through games and interactive activities. 

Relive: With the world’s largest simulation experience in state-of-the-art 360-degree surrounding simulations, you will feel the earth slip beneath your feet, and experience the tremors that people realistically felt in the 2001 Earthquake. 

Renew: This gallery is designed to let the visitors pay their respects to the people who lost their lives in this tragedy and keep the loved ones in their memories with a light spirit. To commemorate them visitors will light up a digital flame through touch panels which will travel through digital LED walls up to the ceiling and form one united light. 

Best time to visit:

The ideal season to travel to Kutch is in the winter. From mid-October to early March, these months have the best weather for tourism because the temperature ranges from 25 to 12 degrees Celsius. Additionally, at that time you can visit the Smriti Van museum 

The Timings:

Tuesday to Sunday

Smritivan: From 05:00 AM until 11:00 PM

Museum: From 11:00 AM until 07:00 PM

Monday: Closed 

Shortlisted for UNESCO’s Award 2024

The winners of the 2024 Prix Versailles Awards, which recognised excellence in architecture, interiors, and exteriors, will be announced at UNESCO headquarters in late November. The Prix Versailles celebrates architectural projects that blend economic, cultural, and ecological dimensions, enhancing societal well-being and environmental stewardship through design. The Smritivan Earthquake Memorial is the first Indian Museum nominated for the UNESCO Prix Versailles Award 2024 highlights its significance and the profound impact on preserving history and promoting sustainable development.

Gujarat has constantly aimed to elevate its cultural heritage under Modi’s leadership, with initiatives like the Statue of Unity and the recognition of Garba dance and Dhordo village by UNESCO and UNWTO, respectively, according to the government release. Shortlisted for the Unesco Prix Versailles Award 2024, this museum is not just a repository of artefacts but It’s a living narrative of the journey. Being shortlisted for this award places Smritivan on the global stage, grabbing the attention of its role as a model for disaster memorials worldwide.