The Mahindra's 'Museum of Living History'

HERITAGE NETWORKS

The Mahindra's 'Museum of Living History'

"On July 12, 2022, The Mahindra Group reached a significant milestone in its journey by launching 'The Museum of Living History'. This museum serves as a platform to showcase and celebrate the group's illustrious 75-year journey and ever-growing legacy."

On July 12, 2022, The Mahindra Group reached a significant milestone in its journey by launching 'The Museum of Living History'. This museum serves as a platform to showcase and celebrate the group's illustrious 75-year journey and ever-growing legacy. It aims to connect the rich history of the group with the present and future, presenting a living history experience to its visitors. The museum beautifully combines the inspiring stories of the group with design and art, creating a truly remarkable experience at 'The Mahindra's Museum of Living History'.

In a press release on the launch day, Mr. Anand Mahindra, Chairman of the Mahindra Group, expressed his excitement about the museum. He stated, "Just as life is constantly evolving, The Museum of Living History is a dynamic entity in the ever-changing world of the Mahindra Group. The museum celebrates our philosophy, DNA, core values, and culture. It is a treasure trove of stories that define us. I am thrilled to witness its evolution over time and to see it tell our brand story like never before."

The concept of a living history museum took shape as interestingly as Ms. Prochie Mukherji, Senior Vice President & Chief of Staff at Mahindra & Mahindra Ltd. explains, "The idea actually originated back in 1995. During a core values exercise, I had the privilege of conversing with individuals who had worked closely with the founders, J.C. and K.C. Mahindra. Instead of discussing production numbers or sales figures, they shared captivating stories with me. It was at that moment that I realized these stories would make a wonderful narrative for a museum."

By reviving these stories and presenting them in an engaging manner, 'The Museum of Living History' promises to captivate visitors and provide a unique insight into the Mahindra Group's journey. It is a testament to the group's commitment to preserving its heritage while embracing the future.

Ms. Elsie Nanji, Design and creative consultant highlights, "The spaces were carefully planned to cocoon the viewer like a warm embrace, a perfect ambience to absorb the message and details of the art within. The idea of curating stories over the last 75 years of Mahindra Group and converting selected stories into a creative brief to inspire each artist was a challenging task. Never before has a large organization or brand told its story in such a unique way."

"The museum celebrates the Rise philosophy of the Mahindra Group. Stories of strive and triumph, values, ethics, and concern for community have been bought to life within it. The museum has been conceptualized as a space where people can gather to learn, share, and interact," the statement added.

Ms. Elsie also elaborates on the process of sourcing talented artists from various parts of India and the world, who possess exceptional skills in craftsmanship, graphic storytelling, music, and other artistic disciplines. These individuals, aided by cutting-edge technology, have come together to shape the future and bring forth the extraordinary experience that is now known as the Mahindra Museum. Among the remarkable contributors to this endeavour are Mr. Shahrukh Irani, Designer and Creative Director, Ms. Sara Lovari, Contemporary Italian Sculptor, and Mr. Jaideep Mehrotra, Contemporary Indian Artist. Their unique, captivating, and imaginative creations have played a pivotal role in shaping the museum's identity.

Mr. Harsh Manrao, an Experience Designer at Figments EXPERIENCE LAB, discusses the background of the Mahindra organization and the importance of documenting its growth in the form of a museum. With the birth of Mahindra preceding the birth of our nation, India has undergone significant changes over the past 75 years. Despite these changes, Mahindra has not only survived but also thrived. Therefore, it is crucial to understand what factors contribute to the company's success. He also emphasizes that, interestingly, the Museum is not solely focused on showcasing successful endeavours, but also on the valuable lessons learned.

Mr. Manrao explains the concept behind the museum, describing the entrance as an "interspace." This space features a vibrant red wall with reflective surfaces on the ceiling, floor, and opposite wall. This design aims to create a sense of consciousness and anticipation, preparing visitors for the immersive experience that awaits them. The vision for the museum is to document history as it unfolds, rather than being stuck in the past.

Let's explore the fascinating galleries of the museum.

Figure 1: 'The Force'

‘The Force’, Mahindra Museum, photograph
supplied by the Figments Experience Lab

Upon entering this first section of the museum, you will be captivated by the powerful FORCE that propels the Mahindra group forward. This force is none other than the philosophy of Rise, which serves as the guiding principle behind every endeavour undertaken by Mahindra. At the core of the Rise philosophy lies the profound understanding that a purpose-driven approach is essential for businesses to thrive sustainably and achieve profitability. By embracing this philosophy, Mahindra creates value not only for its stakeholders but also for our precious planet.

Figure 2: 'The Big Bang'

‘The Big Bang’, Mahindra Museum, photograph
supplied by the Figments Experience Lab

The Big Bang section highlights the simultaneous emergence of Mahindra and India. Mahindra was established during India's struggle for independence, seizing the opportunity to cater to the needs of this nascent nation and its people. As time progressed, the group consistently anticipated and adapted to change, ultimately evolving into a renowned global entity.

Figure 3: 'Stars in Our Sky'

‘Stars in Our Sky’, Mahindra Museum, photograph
supplied by the Figments Experience Lab

This section of the museum is dedicated to the stars that grace the Mahindra skies, showcasing the diverse industries and businesses that sparkle and shine.

Figure 4: 'Hyperspace'

‘Hyperspace’, Mahindra Museum, photograph
supplied by the Figments Experience Lab

Welcome to the future acceleration zone! This section of the museum is dedicated to showcasing innovation at its finest. Here, the group celebrates the power of clever thinking, both in its simplest and most profound forms, which continuously propels the group towards quantum leaps into the future.

Figure 5: 'Beyond Time & Space'

‘Beyond Time & Space’, Mahindra Museum, photograph
supplied by the Figments Experience Lab

This section is dedicated to the "moment" - a unique opportunity to immerse oneself in the present and witness the ever-changing nature of time. As visitors traverse the laser clock within a captivating environment, they transcend the boundaries of the present and embark on a journey into the future.

Figure 6: 'Multiverse'

‘Multiverse’, Mahindra Museum, photograph
supplied by the Figments Experience Lab

The multiverse is a realm teeming with futuristic ideas, a place where limitless possibilities abound. It serves as a platform for showcasing innovative, pioneering, and cutting-edge concepts and technologies. These groundbreaking advancements are presented through a variety of mediums, ranging from temporary exhibitions to captivating auditorium presentations. As visitors take a seat within this extraordinary space, they are encouraged to cast their gaze upwards, guided by the skylight above. This serves as a powerful reminder that the boundaries of the sky no longer confine our aspirations.

Furthermore, Mr. Manrao highlights the use of technology in creating a continuous storytelling experience within the museum. Digital tools have been employed to make updates and additions to the museum's content effortless. For instance, a flip book allows for the daily addition of new stories, while a map can be updated to include any new locations where Mahindra opens offices. Additionally, the museum is designed to accommodate product launches, book releases, and the introduction of new ideas. In this way, the museum embraces the future as an integral part of its purpose.

By combining historical documentation with innovative technology, the Museum offers a captivating and dynamic experience. It not only preserves the rich history of the organization but also serves as a platform for future endeavours.

The Museum is open to the public. So, experience the splendour of the Mahindra’s Living History Museum, at the Mahindra Towers, nestled in the heart of Worli, Mumbai and Immerse yourself in the captivating beauty of this exquisite establishment.

Contributed by the Figments Experience Lab.