Dhenkanal Science Centre to unveil new mirror gallery in January

Bhubaneswar: A state-of-the-art mirror gallery is set to come up at Dhenkanal Science Centre, with authorities planning to inaugurate the facility in Jan next year. The interactive gallery — Odisha’s second after the one at Regional Science Centre (RSC) in Bhubaneswar — aims to spark curiosity among students and visitors by blending science with fun-filled visual illusions.Spread over 3,000sqft, the project has been completed in about six months at an estimated cost of Rs 70 lakh.Officials said the gallery will feature a series of illusion-based exhibits, reflective tunnels and optical installations designed to help visitors understand scientific concepts such as light, perception and symmetry — while also offering an engaging recreational space.The gallery is being developed under National Council of Science Museums (NCSM), which oversees science centres across the country.Manas Baghchi, NCSM director, said the initiative is part of a broader plan to strengthen science learning infrastructure “The mirror gallery in Dhenkanal will give children and general public an opportunity to experience science hands-on. Our objective is to inspire curiosity, encourage questioning and make learning enjoyable. Such interactive spaces help bridge the gap between textbooks and real-life understanding,” said Baghchi.The facility can accommodate about 50 visitors at a time, and separate guided sessions are expected to be organised for school groups, added Baghchi.He further said that the gallery will also host periodic workshops and demonstrations to encourage young learners to explore scientific principles beyond classrooms.With Dhenkanal drawing a steady footfall of students from neighbouring districts, authorities expect the new attraction to significantly boost engagement at the science centre.