An exhibition featuring ancient artefacts, traditional Kodagu items, rare photographs, coins and currency notes has opened at the historic Madikeri Fort Palace.
Organised by the Archaeological Survey of India and the Department of Archaeology, Museums and Heritage, the exhibition marks the inauguration of World Heritage Week and the opening of a permanent photo gallery.
The exhibition will remain open for seven days with free public entry.
A key attraction is the personal coin and currency collection of P. K. Keshavamurthy. The gallery displays photos ranging from prehistoric burial monuments to images of the palace. Rare photographs of Kodagu rulers, including an 1852 portrait of Princess Gouramma, daughter of the last king Chikka Veerarajendra, are among the highlights.
Cultural performances including Ummattat, Balopaat, Bolakat and Kolata dances were presented.
MP Yaduveer Krishnadatta Chamaraja Wadiyar inaugurated the event and stressed the need to preserve the Madikeri Fort. He assured central support to develop the site into a permanent heritage centre.
