Did you know that when Indians saw the first train, they were convinced that there was an invisible power which drew it? They even brought coconuts to worship it!
These and other fascinating anecdotes, facts and exhibits are part of display at a museum dedicated to Indian railways at Kacheguda railway station.
As you enter the station, a hall on your right leads you to a collection of rare photographs, prototype models and interesting anecdotes of railways, complete with nuggets waiting to be discovered. Although the collection is not huge, it offers a fascinating glimpse into the past of Indian Railways.
Here, we also learn that the first passenger train had 14 carriages, carried 400 passengers and ran at a maximum speed of 20 miles/hour on April 16, 1853? That train was from Bombay to Thane.
Iron benches are an integral part of any railway station. At the museum too, there is a small model of a cast iron bench with wooden planks. Next to it is a vintage bell. One can also see a model of general coach of 1625. There are delightful and old models of a magneto phone and rotary dial. One can also learn about symbols, signs and signals regularly used, a lever frame, a hand lever that was used in the signalling system or speed limit, whistle indicator, stop indicator and the signalling lamps used in the olden days. The audio visual room has a narrative about the history and growth of railways.
The two-year-old museum attracts visitors from among passengers waiting to take a train at the railway station. Regular Hyderabadis, especially parents, also bring their children and help them unravel the past.
Henry Norfolk, in charge of the museum, informs that school children often visit the museum. “They are curious and are excited to see the collection here. After the visit, they are happy and share details with friends,” he smiles and adds, “Some want more items to be displayed.”
For instance, the story about the construction of Bhore ghat is delightful. It required eight years to complete, has 25 tunnels, eight arched masonry viaducts. Apparently 25,000 Indians and several hundred Britishers lost their lives in the making of the ghat. Elsewhere, one can see a vintage post card, AC ticket, proto model of passenger coaches, goods wagon and a container van. There are also pictures of other modes of transport since earlier times in India — the bullock cart, dholi and ekha. If you can brave the summer heat, the rail museum is a place to drop by to know more about the iconic Indian railways, its past and how it has evolved over time.
