IGRMS exhibitions are broadly divided into three categories namely
(i) Open-exhibitions
(ii) Indoor galleries (Veethi-Sankul and Bhopal Gallery)
(iii) Periodical/ Temporary exhibitions.
Conceptually the presentations in open-air and indoor galleries are complementary to each other. The objectives of these exhibitions are to present the cohesive life styles of various Indian communities in different eco-climatic zones of the country, their aesthetic values, religious expressions, and socio-economic philosophies for living. The emphasis is to highlight their richness and diversities of India’s cultural patterns and the underlying unity. To begin with, life style of the people living in tribal hamlets, coastal Indian regions along the lengthy sea coastlines, Himalayan regions, River Valleys, Deserts & Arid zones are presented through the exhibitions. To show the richness and diversities, different clusters of traditional house-types from different regions are either transplanted or re-created in the open-air exhibitions. Care has been taken to create appropriate environment around these house-types.
Open air exhibitions
Clusters of the following open-air exhibitions partially developed and opened for the public: Tribal Habitat. Coastal Village, Desert Village, Himalayan Village, Mythological Trail, Traditional Technology park. The most striking feature of the open-air exhibitions is that the exhibits are life-size dwellings built by different tribal communities themselves. The materials which are traditionally used for construction in their respective regions, were specially transported to Bhopal for creating the replica. To create the ambiance, concerned tribal groups did their own home-work by surveying their regional hamlets to understand the intriguing patterns of structural designs, placement of household objects in each locations within and outside the house, collect the sacred flora and ritualistic objects to be planted outside the house-types
Veethi Sankul - Indoor Galleries
This is constructed in about 12,000 sqm. area with spacious exhibition halls, a reference library, indoor & outdoor auditoriums and other miscellaneous facilities, and dedicated to the nation in March, 2005. The structure is unique in its architecture, constructed on a rocky terrain incorporating difficult levels of the sloppy land. The various exhibition halls and auditoriums have been constructed on approximately 16 levels. The structure is covered with Dholpur sand-stone cladding from all sides, and the flooring is made with Kota stones. Approximately 7000 sq.mt. floor area is utilized for exhibitions, in 10 galleries. An important aspect of these galleries are the active involvement of different community groups in developing the exhibits, and their presentations in appropriate environment. Another special feature is the life size displays and visitor friendly approaches for visitors' convenience.