Penang State Exco for Tourism and Creative Economy Wong Hon Wai made a recce visit to the newly opened Indian Heritage Gallery and Cultural Centre along Beach Street this morning.
He was welcomed by the gallery’s founder, N. Ramanathan, and his partner P. Raja of Jayam Store.
Also present were members of the Association of Tourism Attractions Penang (ATTAP) led by their president Ch’ng Huck Theng, Penang Global Tourism CEO Ooi Chok Yan among other guests and supporters of the initiative.
The newly established gallery showcases an extensive collection of heritage items that highlight the history and cultural contributions of the Indian community in Penang and the region.
Lending support to the project is fellow collector Mahadevan Gopal Rengarajan
Visitors can view a wide range of rare and nostalgic artifacts including olden-day bullock carts and handcarts, vintage movie posters from classic Indian cinema, antique cameras, statues and religious figurines, as well as old typewriters that once served offices and businesses in earlier decades.
Also on display are traditional kitchenware and classic cooking utensils used in Indian households, collectible toys from past generations, tobacco containers and storage tins, and many other items that offer a glimpse into everyday life from a bygone era. Each section of the gallery reflects the social, cultural and commercial history of the community, making it both an educational and nostalgic experience for visitors.
You name it, they have it all on display.
Apart from his personal collection gathered over many years, Ramanathan also sourced additional artifacts from India and Burma, bringing in three containers filled with heritage pieces to enrich the exhibits and provide a broader cultural perspective.
The gallery space also incorporates a café manned by two chefs where visitors can relax, enjoy snacks, full meals and freshly brewed coffee while exploring the cultural displays. The ground floor houses the café and cultural centre, while the gallery spaces extend through the premises.
Altogether, the Indian Heritage Gallery and Cultural Centre spans approximately 14,000 square feet, offering a spacious venue for exhibitions, cultural activities and community engagement while adding another unique heritage attraction to Penang’s tourism landscape.
The gallery is open from 10am to 7pm. Call 04-2260-264 for more info or details.