Falling in Love with Stone at the Karmarkar Museum of Sculpture
- By Ar. Pallavi Vasekar.
Hello, art lovers and curious souls!
Imagine this: you’re in Alibaug and want to do something different from the usual beaches and cafés. Let me take you to a true hidden gem—the Karmarkar Museum of Sculpture in Bodani, Maharashtra. Nestled in the quiet village of Sasawane, this place feels like stepping into an artist’s heart, where stone speaks and bronze seems to breathe.
I visited recently, and I’m still moved by the experience. It’s raw, soulful, and deeply inspiring. So, make yourself a cup of chai, and let me share the story of the artist, the sculptures, the materials, the museum’s atmosphere, and how you can visit this treasure yourself.
Nanasaheb Karmarkar: The Sculptor Who Gave Stone a Soul
Vinayak Pandurang Karmarkar, fondly known as Nanasaheb, was not just a sculptor—he was a visionary. Born in 1891 in Sasawane, he showed artistic talent at a young age, making Ganesh idols and painting walls in his village.
His life changed when British district collector Otto Rothfield recognised his gift and helped him secure a scholarship to the J.J. School of Art in Mumbai, one of India’s finest institutions. From there, Nanasaheb’s work gained national recognition. He combined Indian themes with Western techniques in a way that felt both rooted and contemporary.
His dedication earned him many honours, including the Padmashree in 1962 and the title of “Fellow” from the Lalit Kala Akademi in 1964.
Today, his ancestral bungalow houses the Karmarkar Museum, which displays over 150 of his sculptures. Walking through the museum feels almost personal, like entering the artist’s creative world. Each sculpture—from monumental pieces to small figurines—carries life, emotion, and storytelling.
The Sculptures: Stories Carved in Stone
The museum’s collection is vast, but here are a few sculptures that truly stayed with me:
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Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj on Horseback:
This 21-foot bronze masterpiece from 1966 is unforgettable. It captures Shivaji Maharaj in mid-gallop, sword raised, radiating energy and leadership. The original stands at the Military Preparatory School in Pune, but the version at the museum is just as striking. -
Shepherd Boy:
This stone sculpture is simplicity and grace at its best. The boy’s posture, the folds in his clothing, and the expression on his face feel so real that you almost expect him to turn and speak. -
Mother & Child:
Created in plaster of Paris, this sculpture is filled with tenderness. The mother’s protective embrace and the child’s trusting gaze express love in its purest form. -
Matsyagandha:
Inspired by Indian mythology, this wooden sculpture of a fisherwoman has a fluid, natural beauty. The warm grain of the wood makes it feel almost alive.
These sculptures are more than art—they are emotions and moments in time. Nanasaheb celebrated both Indian history and everyday life through his work.
Materials: The Artist’s Mediums
Nanasaheb was a master of many materials:
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Stone: Used for timeless works like Shepherd Boy. His skill brought softness and fluidity even from the hardest stone.
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Bronze: Bold works like Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj were created using the lost-wax casting technique, giving strength and fine detail.
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Wood: Pieces like Matsyagandha highlight the natural texture of wood, adding depth and warmth.
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Plaster of Paris: Perfect for gentle themes, as seen in Mother & Child, allowing for delicate expressions and lightness.
The museum also preserves his tools and unfinished works, giving visitors a glimpse into the artist’s process and discipline.
The Museum’s Atmosphere
The Karmarkar Museum is housed in Nanasaheb’s ancestral bungalow, and this makes the experience even more special. Rustic walls, intimate rooms, and natural light create a setting that feels both historical and personal.
Each sculpture is thoughtfully placed, and the informative boards next to them share details about their themes and techniques, allowing visitors to explore at their own pace.
How to Visit the Karmarkar Museum
Address: Sasawane Road, Bodani, Maharashtra 402201
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By Air: Fly into Mumbai’s Chhatrapati Shivaji International Airport. Drive to Mandwa Jetty (1.5–2 hrs), take a ferry to Alibaug, and then take a 30-min taxi or auto-rickshaw ride to Sasawane.
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By Rail: The nearest station is Pen (30 km). From there, you can hire a taxi or take a bus through scenic countryside roads.
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By Road: From Alibaug, it’s an 18 km (~30 min) drive. From Mumbai, the journey is around 3 hours. Parking is available near the museum.
Timings: 10 AM–5 PM (confirm before visiting)
Entry Fee: ₹5–10 (extremely affordable)
Photography: Allowed with permission—ask the staff.
While you’re there, also visit Sasawane Beach (just 400 m away), Alibaug Beach, or the historic Kolaba Fort nearby.
Tips for Visitors
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Best Time: October to March is perfect for the weather, though the monsoon (June–Sept) makes the area lush and green.
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Duration: Set aside 1–2 hours to enjoy the sculptures and the atmosphere.
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No Souvenir Shop: The memories are your true keepsakes.
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Engage with Staff: The staff are knowledgeable and happy to share insights about Nanasaheb and his life.
Why You Must Visit
The Karmarkar Museum is not just a space to view sculptures; it is an experience that connects you with India’s artistic heritage. Each sculpture reflects Nanasaheb’s ability to capture human emotions, mythology, and history in the most tangible way.
For those who appreciate art, culture, or simply discovering hidden places, this museum is a treasure. It’s inspiring, peaceful, and a reminder of how art can bridge the past and present.
So, the next time you’re in Maharashtra, step away from the usual tourist spots and immerse yourself in this beautiful museum. You’ll walk out with a deeper appreciation for the power of stone and the legacy of a true master sculptor.
Have you visited any unique museums recently? Share your experiences—I’d love to hear them!
Watch & Explore More
🎥 Karmarkar Museum of Sculpture | Sasawane Vlog (YouTube) – A full visual tour of the museum before you go.
🎥 The Definitive Guide To Karmarkar Museum of Sculpture (YouTube) – Learn more about Nanasaheb Karmarkar’s story and artistic legacy.
#KarmarkarMuseum #NanasahebKarmarkar #IndianSculpture #MaharashtraArt #HiddenGemsOfIndia #ArtHeritage
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