Museo Camera Centre for the Photographic Arts — Attraction in Gurugram District

The Museo Camera (also known as Museo Camera Centre for the Photographic Arts) is a museum in Gurugram, Haryana dedicated to the art and history of photography. Inaugurated on 28 August 2019, the museum is a joint public-private venture between Gurugram Municipal Corporation and India Photo Archive Foundation. It is conceived by noted historian, photographer, and activist, Aditya Arya. It is the largest non-profit public-funded centre for photographic arts in South Asia.1

History The museum started in 2009 in a basement as a part of Arya's personal collections of equipment related to photography.[3] In order to make the collection more accessible to the public, Arya collaborated with the Municipal Corporation of Gurugram in 2016. A museum spanning over 18,000 sq. ft. was inaugurated on 28 August 2019.[4]

Collections The museum collection has over 3000 objects which include cameras, lenses, lighting equipment, photographic ephemera, etc. that traces the history and progress of photography in the world and the Indian subcontinent in particular.[5] There are over 2500 antique cameras from more than 100 countries across the world. Prominent artifacts include the world's tiniest camera, while the oldest one in the collection dates back to the 1870s. There are also flash equipment, photographic films, lenses of various types, light meters, and enlargers. The photo archives consist of photographs of socio-political, cultural, and historical interests.[6]

Recognised by the Indian Government's Ministry of Culture as a National Collection, the Kulwant Roy Collection is housed in this museum. It features rare and iconic images of India's freedom fighters and national heroes. It has been widely exhibited around the world by the Government of India in collaboration with ICCR.[7] The other miscellaneous range of exhibits on display includes notable advertisements from the world of photography, materials related to camera companies, film roll makers, historic records of patents, etc. One of the most famous exhibits is the Century Graphic (Turn of the Century) which Aditya Arya explains was used to take portrait pictures in 1900s in the studio.[8]

Events and exhibitions The museum regularly organises several events and exhibitions all throughout the year. Some of the important events it has conducted include a talk by Harsheen Jammu on The Essence of Colors, a performance by the music band Chaar Yaar on account of India's platinum jubilee celebrations of Independence Day, Mahmood Farooqui's Dastangoi, etc.[9] Notable exhibitions include Partho Sen Gupta's Unpacked, H.E. Emmanuel Lenin's An Exhibition of Cyanotype Prints, Aparna Banerjee's Framing Flowers are significant examples.[10] Tarab Khan's painting exhibition At the Gates of Talbosh, presented a way of escape from the real world into a new world of future...

My visit to the Museo Camera in Gurgaon was an unforgettable experience, and I'm so glad I finally made it. It's more than just a museum; it's a journey through the history of photography, meticulously curated and brought to life by the passion of its founder, Aditya Arya. From the moment you step in, you're transported to a different era. The museum is a treasure trove of cameras, from the large format bellows cameras of the 19th century to the iconic Leicas and early digital models. But what makes this collection truly special is how it's presented. The cameras aren't just displayed; they are part of a larger story that explains the evolution of this art form. You see how photography went from a complex, chemical-heavy process to the accessible medium it is today. The real highlight of the tour was the guided walk with Aditya Arya himself, whom everyone affectionately calls "Aditya Uncle." His knowledge is encyclopedic, and he has a way of sharing it that is both educational and deeply personal. He doesn't just list facts; he tells anecdotes and shares his personal connection to many of the cameras in the collection. He explained the technical marvels of early photography and how they paved the way for modern cameras. His tour isn't just a lecture; it's a conversation filled with humor, warmth, and an infectious love for the subject. Aditya Uncle’s passion is evident in every corner of the museum. He has personally salvaged and restored many of these historical artifacts, ensuring that the legacy of these incredible machines lives on. He can point to a camera and tell you about the person who used it and the historical moment it captured. His ability to connect the past to the present makes the history of photography feel incredibly relevant. A visit to Museo Camera is a must for anyone interested in photography, history, or simply looking for a unique and inspiring experience. The tour with Aditya Uncle is the true heart of the museum, and it’s a privilege to learn from someone so dedicated to preserving this incredible history. It’s a place that reminds you of the power of a single photograph to capture a moment in time and the ingenuity of the people who created the...

Museo Camera, the camera museum, is a phenomenal destination for photography enthusiasts and anyone intrigued by the captivating world of photography. This museum goes beyond being a mere collection of cameras; it's a captivating journey through the history, technology, and artistry of photography. The diverse collection at Museo Camera is nothing short of astounding, spanning from vintage, hand-cranked cameras to cutting-edge digital equipment. The exhibits are thoughtfully organized, enabling you to traverse the fascinating evolution of photography. It's a place where you can truly appreciate the craftsmanship of early cameras and the innovation that has shaped the modern photographic world.

Moreover, Museo Camera isn't just a static display; it's a dynamic space. The museum frequently hosts exhibitions and workshops that cater to both novices and experienced photographers. The staff's passion and expertise shine through as they guide you through the displays, sharing captivating stories and insights that deepen your connection to the world of photography. The ambiance of the museum is educational and inspiring in equal measure. You'll find yourself immersed in the realm of photography, surrounded by inspiration at every turn. The museum's architecture and design are works of art in themselves, providing the ideal backdrop for its extraordinary collection.

My visit to Museo Camera was nearly flawless. The only minor downside was the limited parking options in the vicinity, which can be a slight inconvenience. Nevertheless, it's a negligible drawback in the face of the exceptional experience this museum delivers. In summary, Museo Camera is a genuine treasure for those who cherish the art and history of photography. It offers an enlightening and enriching journey through time and technology, and I wholeheartedly award it 5 stars. Your visit to this museum will undoubtedly leave you with a newfound appreciation for the captivating world of...