PANAJI
A captivating display of rare and unique personal treasures drew crowds and sparked curiosity at the ‘My Own Collection’ exhibition, which recently concluded at the Goa Science Centre. The event celebrated the art of collecting, offering a platform for individuals to share their private collections with the public, ranging from vintage memorabilia and historical artefacts to stamps, coins, and global newspapers.
Organised to mark International Museum Day, the exhibition was held from May 18 to 20 and aimed to encourage the hobby of collecting and preserving distinctive items of cultural and historical significance.
Among the standout contributors was Basil Sylvester Pinto, who exhibited an impressive assortment of printed newspapers from 39 countries. As digital platforms increasingly replace print media, Pinto expressed hope that physical newspapers would endure, highlighting the unique satisfaction that comes from reading a tangible publication.
Dr M R Rameshkumar, a noted philatelist from Goa, showcased a range of rare postage stamps and a remarkable set of 180 Meghdoot postcards”all collected from students in a single day, an effort that intrigued many visitors.
Also featured were rare coin and currency collections by Vinayak Shanbhag and 13-year-old Anjali Mayekar, who drew attention for her enthusiasm and eye for history at such a young age. Other displays included coral, devotional items, and objects from home temples, each offering a glimpse into personal heritage and passions.
The exhibition succeeded in highlighting how personal hobbies can grow into meaningful collections with educational and cultural significance. Organisers noted that the event not only encouraged seasoned collectors but also inspired young visitors to begin preserving pieces of history themselves.
