MUSEUM MAKER ABHISHEK PODDAR TALKS TO AD ABOUT MAP—ONE OF THE COOLEST CONTEMPORARY MUSEUMS IN INDIA.

Firstly, I think we need to develop an active museum-going culture.

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AD: What is your view on the museum-going culture of India and how does the Museum of Art & Photography (MAP) sit in that landscape?

Abhishek Poddar: We are competing for attention with so many entertainment options just within the home and outside. We need to create this culture through interesting exhibitions and programming that appeal to every demographic. While MAP has a high percentage of visitors from elsewhere, we also want to engage the residents of the city. And that can only be done if the museum and its programming are dynamic.

What is the sweetest joy of being a museum maker?

It is about what I missed growing up. When I see so many kids visiting MAP, I feel great. If we've made the museum comfortable enough for people to come hang out, then I think we've made a small mark. The greater satisfaction is the feedback one gets from visitors. The other day, a visitor at the museum came up to me and said, “Thank you for giving the city this incredible gift.”

The use of technology is central to a contemporary museum.