mid-day editorial: The museum of pointless political battles

Dr Bhau Daji Lad museum, situated in the Byculla East, has managed to fend of many controversies in the past, but certain issues seem to be coming up to the fore now. Reports suggest, the BMC is set to send the museum a 15-point rejoinder, which follows the first notice issued to it.

Last year, a fashion show at the museum had to be cancelled after MNS party members objected to the event saying museums were not supposed to host commercial programmes. Politicians then tried to remove museum director Tasneem Mehta, alleging irregularities in the running of the museum. MNS had also protested the museum's expansion plans. While there was a buzz last year that BMC might takeover the museum, nothing happened on that front.

Perhaps it will be prudent of civic authorities, politicians and museum trustees to sit together and iron out all issues, doubts and differences.

The museum's transformation, however, has been well received as it overnight it turned from a "who-goes-there?" place to must-visit. It's indeed a gift and a privilege as citizens get a chance to view Mumbai's history and culture at a measly Rs 10.

The museum, which also boasts of support from some of the city's biggest industrialists, will receive an International Quality Award in the Gold category this November. A noteworthy parameter it was judged on was that it acted as a catalyst for the benefit of the community from where it operates. Clashes with civic authorities may give the wrong impression to international collaborators. Experts who often host events at the museum may also begin to avoid the museum to steer clear of bad press. A spirit of co-operation is the way forward - not just for the cognoscenti, but also youngsters who might cut their cultural teeth here.