Ever living museum
The Ever Living Museum in Shillong is a unique cultural and historical treasure, showcasing the rich heritage of Meghalaya’s indigenous tribes. Located in the Mawshbuit area, about 10 km from Shillong Bus Stand, this private museum was established in 2015 by Kyntiewbor War, a retired engineer from the Meghalaya government. The museum is divided into three sections: the main museum, the stone museum, and a beautiful garden filled with orchids and wildflowers native to the region
Main Museum
The main museum is a concrete structure that houses a diverse collection of artifacts from the Khasi, Jaintia, and Garo tribes. Visitors can explore a wide array of ancient and contemporary weapons, such as traditional bows and arrows, spears, and shields. Additionally, the museum displays musical instruments, including drums, gongs, pipes, bamboo and iron mouth organs, and other string instruments typical of the tribes
Handicrafts and Daily Life Items
The handicrafts section is particularly fascinating, featuring miniature baskets, fish traps, and filters made of bamboo. The museum also exhibits miniature tree huts of the Garo tribe and bamboo huts of the Khasi tribe. Visitors can admire ancient smoking pipes, traditional dresses, and jewelry of the Khasi, Garo, and Rabha tribes. The collection extends to household items like cast iron kettles, curry-making pots, and old pressure cookers, providing a glimpse into the daily life of these tribes
Stone Museum
Adjacent to the main museum is the stone museum, which boasts around 30 types of stones collected from various parts of Meghalaya. This includes stone-age tools, weathered rocks, granite, and flint stones, offering insight into the geological history of the region Garden
The museum is set within a lush garden that features nearly 100 varieties of orchids and wildflowers, along with about 25 varieties of ferns. This garden not only adds to the aesthetic appeal of the museum but also reflects the region’s rich biodiversity
Cultural and Educational Significance
The Ever Living Museum serves as an important cultural and educational resource. It is dedicated to preserving and promoting the tangible heritage of Meghalaya for future generations. The museum’s curator, Kyntiewbor War, along with Andrew Marwein, a cultural studies student and museum secretary, work diligently to document and preserve these artifacts
Visitor Information
The museum is open from 11 AM to 5 PM daily, except on Good Friday, Easter, and Christmas. The entry fee is Rs. 50 for adults, Rs. 20 for children, and Rs. 30 for college students The museum also organizes guided walks and educational tours to enhance the visitor experience
Accessibility
Situated in the picturesque village of Mawshbuit, the museum is easily accessible by cab from Shillong. The serene environment and the museum’s rich collection make it a must-visit destination for anyone interested in the culture, history, and natural beauty of Meghalaya
The Ever Living Museum is not just a repository of artifacts; it is a vibrant space that connects visitors with the rich cultural tapestry of Meghalaya. Through its extensive collection and well-maintained garden, the museum offers a comprehensive understanding of the region’s heritage, making it an essential stop for tourists and researchers alike.
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