International Museum of Goddess in Katra reviewed by Manoj Sinha to present Shakti traditions

Jammu and Kashmir Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha chaired a meeting on the proposed International Museum of Goddess at Katra, planned as a spiritual and cultural centre focused on Shakti traditions. The museum is set to present the 51 Shakti Peethas and nine Swaroops of Maa Durga using artefacts, local traditions, and immersive technology, supported by a new director general post and a corpus fund.

Jammu and Kashmir Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha chaired a high-level meeting on Thursday evening. The discussion focused on setting up an International Museum of Goddess at Katra. Officials said the plan aimed to create a global spiritual and cultural landmark. The museum was set to highlight Shakti traditions and improve the pilgrim experience.

Officials said the proposed museum was planned as more than a display space. The site was expected to serve as a spiritual sanctuary and a knowledge centre. Plans included an integrated library and a research centre. Officials said it aimed to pass cultural, traditional and spiritual values to younger people.

International Museum of Goddess at Katra: What it will showcase

Officials said the museum will present sacred iconography linked to 51 Shakti Peethas. The exhibits will also cover the nine divine Swaroops of Maa Durga. Officials said the content was intended to help visitors understand Mata Shakti. The design was expected to connect faith narratives with regional traditions.

During the meeting, board members and stakeholders offered suggestions on design and visitor flow. Officials said the goal was a world-class institution. The museum was expected to use immersive storytelling, artefacts and local traditions. Officials said modern technology will be used to support interpretation and learning.

International Museum of Goddess at Katra: Preparations and governance

The CEO of the Shrine Board said preparatory steps have already started. These included a dedicated website to gather suggestions from across the globe. The CEO also reported study visits to premier museums across the country. Officials said the board has identified domain experts for the project.

Officials said the board approved a permanent director general post for the museum. The director general will lead a dedicated team of experts and officials. Officials also said approval was given for a dedicated corpus fund. The fund was meant for conceptualisation, development and operations of the project.

Officials said Manoj Sinha suggested deputing experts to visit sacred Shaktipeeths. These sites were proposed for inclusion in the museum displays. The board also decided to appoint a specialised consultant. Officials said the consultant will handle detailed research and architectural conceptualisation.

Officials said the museum plan at Katra moved ahead with staffing and funding approvals. The meeting also set out steps for research, design work and site visits. Officials said the aim remained a structured space for faith, learning and documentation. The project was positioned to link Shakti traditions with curated exhibits and study facilities.

With inputs from PTI