India’s First Open-Air Art Wall Museum Marks IMD’s 150-Year Journey

New Delhi, February 18, 2025 – India has taken a unique step in blending science and art with the inauguration of the country’s first Open-Air Art Wall Museum at Mausam Bhawan, New Delhi. Dr. Jitendra Singh, Union Minister of State for Science and Technology and Earth Sciences, inaugurated this innovative initiative to mark the 150-year journey of the India Meteorological Department (IMD).

The museum features 38 murals that visually narrate India’s meteorological advancements, IMD’s historical evolution, and its contribution to society. The project was developed in collaboration with Delhi Street Art, transforming the exterior walls of IMD’s headquarters into an artistic tribute to India’s weather forecasting legacy.

How Does the Open-Air Art Museum Celebrate 150 Years of IMD?

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) was established in 1875 and has played a crucial role in weather forecasting, disaster management, aviation, and agriculture. The murals at Mausam Bhawan depict key milestones in meteorology, showcasing advancements in technology and IMD’s contributions to climate resilience.

Key elements of the murals include

• Historic weather events and the development of modern forecasting techniques.
• IMD’s role in disaster preparedness, such as cyclone warnings and monsoon predictions.
• Cultural references like Kalidasa’s “Meghaduta” and the legendary musician Tansen, emphasizing the deep connection between weather and Indian heritage.

The initiative is a first-of-its-kind effort to present meteorological science in an engaging, accessible format for the public.

What Role Did Delhi Street Art Play in This Project?

The museum is the result of a collaboration between IMD and Delhi Street Art, a collective known for transforming urban spaces with meaningful artwork. Led by the late Yogesh Saini, the team created a vibrant, visual story of IMD’s scientific progress.

Dr. Jitendra Singh emphasized the importance of using art to communicate scientific achievements, making weather science more relatable to the general public. “This project showcases how art can make complex subjects engaging and accessible,” he said at the inauguration.

By combining art and science, the museum offers an educational experience, helping people understand the importance of weather forecasting and climate resilience.

How Will This Initiative Shape the Future of Meteorology in India?

The Open-Air Art Wall Museum is not just a tribute to the past but also a vision for the future. The government is committed to strengthening India’s meteorological capabilities by investing in research, infrastructure, and technology.

Key future initiatives include:

• Expanding climate prediction models to enhance disaster preparedness.
• Strengthening early warning systems for cyclones, heatwaves, and floods.
• Promoting public awareness on climate change and weather patterns through interactive projects like this museum.

By integrating art, history, and science, IMD’s 150-year milestone is being celebrated in a way that inspires future generations to engage with weather science and its impact on daily life.

The Open-Air Art Wall Museum at Mausam Bhawan is a landmark initiative, setting a new precedent for how scientific institutions can engage with the public in creative ways. As India moves forward in meteorology and climate research, projects like this will continue to play a role in educating and inspiring people about the science of weather.

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