Prime Minister Narendra Modi Thursday bought the first ticket to inaugurate India's first Museum of Prime Ministers. The museum, which was previously dedicated to India's first prime minister Jawaharlal Nehru, now showcases the life and work of all 14 Prime Ministers of India, from Nehru to Modi.  

The museum tells the story of past Prime Ministers and how they steered the nation through various challenges, according to officials. While showcasing the journey, it also offers glimpses of India's history, starting from the freedom struggle. The guiding principle has been to recognise the contributions of all the prime ministers in a non-partisan manner, say officials.

"The museum on 14 former prime ministers of India has been developed to create awareness about these leaders. It recognises the contributions of all the prime ministers irrespective of their ideology or tenure in office," said officials quoted by news agency PTI.

The museum, say officials quoted by NDTV, is an attempt to present information in an easy and interesting manner by harnessing latest technology, using holograms, virtual reality, augmented reality, multi-touch, multi-media, interactive kiosks, computerised kinetic sculptures, smartphone applications, interactive screens and experiential installations.

Calling India the "mother of democracy", Modi said it was a matter of pride for Indians that most of the country's prime ministers came from very humble families. 

"All Prime Ministers of the country have tried to take the country forward by surmounting the challenges of the time. There have been different dimensions to their personality, achievements and leadership. These should remain in public memory. I believe that this Pradhanmantri Sangrahalaya (Museum of Prime Ministers) would become a source of energy for building the future," he said.

"It is a matter of pride for us Indians that most of our Prime Ministers have come from very ordinary families - from remote, rural areas, underprivileged families, farmer families, this strengthens the belief in the great traditions of Indian democracy," he stated.

"This museum has as much future as history," he added.

(SAM)