Mukhi House Museum

Mukhi House Museum, also known as Mukhi Mahal, is a beautifully restored heritage museum located in Hyderabad, Sindh, Pakistan. Built in 1920 by Jethanand Mukhi, a member of a prominent Hindu Sindhi family, the mansion served as the family’s residence until 1957.

The Mukhi family, known for their business acumen and philanthropy, played a significant role in Hyderabad’s social and economic landscape during the 19th and 20th centuries.

Architectural Significance

Mukhi House is an architectural gem that showcases a blend of Renaissance, Art Deco, and Art Nouveau styles. The two-story structure features load-bearing stone masonry, Roman arches, and intricate woodwork. Its Italianate façade and art deco interior reflect the opulence of the era. The house includes several bedrooms, courtyards, halls, and a library, all adorned with craftsmanship from India, evident in the floor work, wooden details, and fresco-like stonework.

Historical Journey

After the partition of India in 1947, the Mukhi family migrated to India, and the house changed hands multiple times. It was briefly used as a government school and later suffered damage during ethnic riots in the 1980s. In 2008, the descendants of the Mukhi family agreed to relinquish future claims to the property on the condition that it be conserved and converted into a museum. The restoration, led by Dr. Kaleemullah Lashari from the Department of Antiquities in Sindh, aimed to preserve the original interior design and architectural features.

Museum and Exhibits

Today, Mukhi House operates as a museum that offers visitors a glimpse into the lives of the Mukhi family and the broader social and cultural context of their time. The museum houses a diverse collection of artifacts, furniture, and photographs that showcase the family’s affluent lifestyle and their social and political prominence. Notably, the house once hosted Jawaharlal Nehru, the first Prime Minister of India.