What Is Shabdalok? Amit Shah Inaugurates India’s First Immersive Language Museum in Kolkata

Last Updated: Jul 20, 2026, 11:20 IST

Union Home Minister Amit Shah has inaugurated Shabdalok India’s first immersive language museum. It is located at the National Library in Kolkata. Know its technologies, timings and why it is important.

What Is Shabdalok? Amit Shah Inaugurates India’s First Immersive Language Museum in Kolkata
What Is Shabdalok? Amit Shah Inaugurates India’s First Immersive Language Museum in Kolkata

India has inaugurated Shabdalok, which is country’s first immersive language museum. Union Home Minister Amit Shah inaugurated the museum at the National Library in Kolkata. The museum uses advanced technologies such as AI, augmented reality (AR), virtual reality (VR), holograms and interactive displays to show the evolution from oral traditions and ancient manuscripts to printed words to electronic texts. Keep reading in detail. 

What Is Shabdalok?

Shabdalok is also known as the Museum of Word. It is India’s first immersive language museum. The museum is developed by the Ministry of Culture at the National Library campus in Kolkata. The museum showcases India’s linguistic diversity with the help of languages, scripts, literature and storytelling through interactive and technology driven visuals. 

Where Is Shabdalok Located?

Shabdalok is located in the Belvedere House inside National Library campus in Kolkata. The iconic building has been the National Library since 1948. 

India’s First Immersive Language Museum in Kolkata

How Many Languages Are Showcased?

Shabdalok presents the history and development of nearly 380 languages, including the 121 languages recorded in the 2011 Census of India. Shabdalok also has several historical languages that are no longer widely spoken. 

What Technology Does Shabdalok Use?

Shabdalok uses modern technology, including Artificial Intelligence (AI), Augmented Reality (AR), Virtual Reality (VR), Interactive touchscreens, Holographic displays, Gesture sensors and audio-visual installations. 

What Did Amit Shah Say at the Inauguration?

During the inauguration, Amit Shah urged students to learn at least one Indian language in addition to their mother tongue, saying that languages are carriers of culture and heritage. He also highlighted the role of libraries in nation-building and emphasised the need to preserve India’s multilingual traditions. 

Is Entry to the Museum Free?

Yes. The Ministry of Culture has announced that entry to Shabdalok will remain free until August 15, 2026. The museum is open from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM on all days except Mondays. 

Shabdalok

Feature Details
Museum Name Shabdalok (Museum of Word)
Location National Library, Kolkata
Inaugurated By Union Home Minister Amit Shah
Type India’s first immersive language museum
Languages Showcased Nearly 380
Number of Galleries 9
Technologies Used AI, AR, VR, holograms, interactive exhibits
Visiting Hours 10:00 AM–6:00 PM (Closed on Mondays)
Entry Fee Free until August 15, 2026

Jasreet Kaur
Jasreet Kaur

Executive - Editorial

Jasreet Kaur is a journalist with over 3 years of experience in digital media and news content creation. She specializes in covering Trending News, including major National and International developments, with a focus on delivering accurate, engaging, and reader-friendly stories. Prior to this, she worked with Zee News as a Content Writer, where she gained extensive experience in news reporting and content strategy. Driven by curiosity, credibility, and a passion for impactful journalism, Jasreet aims to contribute to informed public discourse while supporting positive growth in organizations, society, and the world.

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First Published: Jul 20, 2026, 11:20 IST

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