AGARTALA, May 18 (TIWN): In its efforts to reach out to a wider audience, the state museum of Tripura today joined the 37th International Museum Day (IMD) being celebrated by over 35,000 museums in 120 countries under the theme: “Museum collections make connections”.

 “It is a very opportune time for the state museum to reach out to wider audience by joining the international museum day”, said Santanu Das secretary ICA, adding, “It will raise greater awareness and clear understanding of the history and culture” On the occasion of IMD, the rush of visitors at the state museum was high compared to other days informed an official of the museum.

Vice President Hamid Ansari on last year inaugurated the Tripura State Museum at Ujjayanta Palace – abode of the erstwhile princely state of Tripura. The museum, biggest in northeast India, is equipped with modern infrastructures and concepts to make it one of the best in the country. It was earlier housed in a small two-storey building at Post Chowmuhani.

First launched in 1977, IMD helps raise awareness of the importance of museums and also gives museum professionals a chance to mingle with the general public and explain both the successes and the challenges museums face in today’s society. The International Council of Museums, created in 1946, organizes special events, tours, workshops and exhibitions for IMD. Some locations may offer free and discounted entry fee.