85cr Gandhi Vatika struggles for visitors a yr after opening

Jaipur: The Gandhi Vatika in Central Park, envisioned as a state-of-the-art interactive museum on Mahatma Gandhi, remains in search of visitors even a year after being opened to the public. Built at a cost of Rs 85 crore over 14,500 sq m, the facility was inaugurated on Oct 2, 2024, by Chief Minister Bhajan Lal Sharma. Yet, the grand structure has failed to emerge either as a tourist attraction or an educational hub.Contrary to expectations, the site wears a deserted look most days. On-ground staff said only four to six people visit on average. "Some days, not even a single person walks in," admitted a staff member. The entry fee is Rs 50 for Indian visitors, Rs 25 for students, Rs 200 for foreign tourists and Rs 100 for foreign students but even these nominal rates have failed to draw footfall.Originally placed under the ‘Non-Violence and Peace Trust' formed by the previous Congress govt, the museum was later shifted under the department of archaeology and museums for maintenance, with Rajasthan tourism department responsible for promotion. Coordination between the two departments, however, appears to be missing. The museum houses three-storey exhibits on Gandhi's early life, his years in South Africa and leadership of India's freedom struggle. Advanced technologies such as holographic projection and 3D sculptures narrate the journey from colonial rule to Independence. Portraits by eminent artists, curated books, films and digital displays are part of the collection. Yet, much of it lies unseen. Facilities such as a conference hall, auditorium, souvenir shop and library have remained shut for nearly a year due to low visitor numbers. Even the token-operated entry gates have never been used. Mamta, who supervises security, said, "Only four to six people come here in a day. What's the point of opening all the doors? Today, because it's Gandhi Jayanti, there are a few more people. Otherwise, we spend days sitting idle." Former CM Ashok Gehlot, who inspected the site in July, accused the govt of apathy, noting inadequate staff, lack of publicity and absence of full-time management. He suggested including the museum in combined tickets for Jaipur tourist spots and appointing guides trained in Gandhian ideology. At present, there is no professional guide to explain the exhibits to foreign tourists or students. Only two exhibition operators are deployed and their job is limited to running display screens. "This museum is extremely interesting. Children can learn a lot here but nobody knows about it. If schools are involved and promotion is done, it can generate revenue and awareness," said one of them. Attempts to seek comment from Neeraj Tripathi, who holds additional charge of the facility, went unanswered.