IM Kozhikode, during the end of 2010, has embarked on an ambitious programme to create a Museum of Indian Business History which will be first of its kind, unique, monumental and a significant step in acknowledging the contribution of India’s business leaders in the making of India. The ancient and historical city of Kozhikode (earlier known as Calicut), located in the southern most part of the country, made history when Vasco Da Gama landed here for the first time around 500 years ago. Trade, Commerce, Business Corporate and the Industry have varied as well as rich tradition and a vast history in the Indian sub-continent, yet there are no business history museums or archives attempted/ created so far in India. All these vouched the dire need for a national Business History Museum for India.

The Institute takes pride in announcing that the first ever Business Museum of India, which has been under creation at IIMK for the past one year, is ready for opening. The first phase of the Museum work has been completed. All works pertaining to the various theme-based sections of Museum, such as the ancient, medieval, colonial, pre-independence, post-independence, business sector, public sector, banking sector, technology sector, individual contributors, makers of modern India etc. are completed.

The Institute has spent close to Rs. 1.5 Crores to complete the first phase. The Malabar Chamber of Commerce also generously donated to the Museum by sponsoring the Malabar Pavilion and a large model of the Uru, the ancient ship which was used for trade and commerce between India and the rest of the world. The Museum spans over 23000 sq. ft. area.

It is a pleasure to report that the Phase I of the Museum work is completed and the Museum is ready for Inauguration. Over half a dozen of top level corporate from India have set up their own exclusive pavilions in the Museum and already TATA, Godrej, Reliance, SBI, Infosys and FACT have already made their presence. Bajaj, Sahara Group and ICICI Bank are joining the Museum soon.

On July 6, 2012 Dr. D. Subbarao, the Hon’ble Governor of the RBI inaugurated the RBI Gallery in the Indian Business Museum. RBI Gallery is one of the significant sections in the Business Museum. The Gallery speaks of the evolution of the reserve bank as well as the origins and history of the financial system in India.

ISRO is also will be joining the Museum with the ISRO Pavilion.

The theme of the Museum was unveiled by Shri Oommen Chandy, the Hon’ble Chief Minister of Kerala, in the presence of the Cabinet Ministers and Prof. Debashis Chatterjee on 18 August 2011.

Prof. Debashis Chatterjee, Director IIM Kozhikode takes this opportunity to urge the corporate houses, business leaders and historical collectors in the country to generously donate business related historical artifacts, objects, sculptures, models, photographs, documents, illustrations etc. and the receipt of which will be befittingly acknowledged, documented and carefully preserved in the Museum.

Donors are requested to forward the items/enquiries to The Convener, Indian Business Museum, Indian Institute of Management Kozhikode, IIMK Campus P.O., CALICUT – 673 570, INDIA (Phone: Off. 0495-2809140; Mob. 09447654066; Email: mgsree@iimk.ac.in).