Shankar's International Dolls Museum is inside the Children's Book Trust building on Bahadur Shah Zafar Marg in Delhi. Its collection spans more than 6,000 dolls from around 85 countries, with displays grouped by region and a dedicated Indian section. Look closely at the clothing: the dolls show traditional dress from different parts of India and the world. Founded by cartoonist K. Shankar Pillai, the museum gives children and adults a compact way to explore customs and costume traditions through objects rather than a conventional gallery display.
A collection begun by K. Shankar Pillai
Political cartoonist K. Shankar Pillai started collecting dolls after receiving one from a Hungarian envoy. The collection grew from that initial interest into a museum established in 1965. It began with about 500 dolls; today, more than 6,000 are on display, representing around 85 countries.
Pillai's interest also took the collection beyond a private pursuit. During a travelling exhibition for children from low-income backgrounds, former prime minister Jawaharlal Nehru and his daughter Indira Gandhi visited. They suggested creating a permanent museum, leading to the institution on Bahadur Shah Zafar Marg.
How the exhibits are arranged
The dolls are organised into regional sections. One part focuses on India and Asian countries; another includes dolls from Europe, the Americas, Australia and New Zealand. The Indian display includes dolls dressed in clothing associated with different states, while international exhibits show traditional attire from their countries of origin.
The collection is presented in glass cases, so take time to look closely at the outfits and the small details of each figure. Labels accompany the dolls and add context to the displays. Reading them turns a walk through the galleries into a closer look at the customs and clothing represented, rather than just a count of how many dolls you can spot.
A visit with children
The range of costumes gives younger visitors plenty to notice, and the museum suits adults interested in cultural dress and the history of the collection. Its displays bring together dolls from far beyond Delhi, alongside Indian examples that represent different regions of the country.
Photography is not permitted inside, so plan to enjoy the exhibits without taking pictures. The museum is in the Children's Book Trust building beside Bahadur Shah Zafar Marg. For a quieter visit, choose a weekday and leave time to read the labels as you move through the regional displays.
FAQ
Where is Shankar's International Dolls Museum?
It is in the Children's Book Trust building on Bahadur Shah Zafar Marg in Delhi. Gate No. 4 at ITO Metro station is a convenient exit for reaching it.
What can you see at the museum?
The collection includes more than 6,000 dolls from around 85 countries. Displays include dolls in traditional clothing from India and other regions.
Can you take photos inside the museum?
No. Photography is not allowed inside.
When is the museum open?
It is open Tuesday through Sunday, 10 am to 5:30 pm, and closed on Monday.
