150 years of IMD Celebrated with India’s 1st Open-Air Art Wall Museum

On the occasion of the celebration of the 150th year of the foundation of the Indian Meteorological Department (IMD), India’s first “Open Air Art Wall Museum” was inaugurated at the Mausam Bhawan in New Delhi on 18th February 2025. 

Mausm Bhawan is the name of the building that houses the headquarters of the Indian Meteorological Department in New Delhi.

The Indian Meteorological Department was founded by the British on 15 January 1875 and presently it is under the Union Ministry of Earth Science.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi launched Mission Mausam of the IMD on 14 January 2025 in Delhi in a function to celebrate the 150th foundation year of the Indian Meteorological Department. The function also kick-started a series of functions to be organsied by the Indian Meteorological Department to celebrate its 150th foundation year.

Who inaugurated the Open Air Art Wall Museum?

The Open Air Art Museum was inaugurated by the Union Minister for State (Independent Charge) for Science and Technology and  Earth Sciences, Dr Jitendra Singh in New Delhi on 18 February 2025.

What is an Open Air Art Wall Museum?

The Open Air Museum refers to the artwork done on the walls of the Mausma Bhawan.

The IMD, in collaboration with the ‘Delhi Street Art’ organisation, has depicted the history of the IMD in 38 unique murals.

The murals depict the evolution of weather forecasting and advancement in meteorological technology like satellites and radars. It also depicts the role of IMD forecasting in safeguarding lives through early warnings for cyclones, monsoons, and extreme weather conditions and its impact on agriculture, disaster management, and everyday life.

The murals also pay tribute to Kalidasa’s Meghaduta and the legendary musical prowess of Tansen, who is believed to have influenced weather with his ragas. The murals also depict the country's diverse climatic zones, weather-related safety guidelines, and the scientific evolution of meteorology.

Also Read: PM Modi launches Mission Mausam on 150th anniversary of IMD