DakshinaChitra Installs Solar Power with support from Muthoot Finance to Empower Heritage Sustainably

Chennai, 7th January 2025 – The Madras Craft Foundation and the DakshinaChitra Museum today announce the inauguration of their newly installed Solar Power Plant, a key initiative to integrate sustainable energy practices into preserving and showcasing South India’s rich cultural heritage.

Funded and supported by Muthoot Finance, this solar power project underscores a shared commitment to environmental sustainability, energy efficiency, and cultural preservation. Muthoot Finance earmarked Rs. 25 lakhs for this project with an aim to align modern technology with heritage conservation. This initiative sets a benchmark for eco-friendly practices in cultural institutions. This newly installed solar power will account for almost 50-60% of the museum’s electricity power consumption and result in an annual savings of Rs. 7 lakhs tentatively.

Renowned actor and director, Ms. Revathy inaugurated the solar plant on Friday, 3rd January 2025, at 11:00 AM, at the DakshinaChitra Museum. Ms. Revathy is known for her significant contributions to Indian cinema and various societal issue. Mr. Sharath Nambiar, Director of DakshinaChitra Museum, graced the ceremony with a welcome speech and felicitation of guests. Mr. Rohith Raj K, Head of CSR at Muthoot Finance, introduced the project and highlighted Muthoot Finance’s commitment to sustainability. Dr. Deborah Thiagarajan, Founder of the Madras Craft Foundation and DakshinaChitra Museum, and Dr. Kalpanaa Sankar, Managing Director, BELSTAR Micro Finance Ltd. addressed the gathering, emphasizing the role of sustainable practices in preserving cultural heritage. The event concluded with a vote of thanks by Ms. Anitha Pottamkulam, Director of Culture at DakshinaChitra Museum.

Speaking on the occasion, Mr. Sharath Nambiar, Director of DakshinaChitra Museum, said, “Preserving South India’s diverse heritage demands not just safeguarding art and culture but also the environment they thrive in. This solar power plant symbolizes our commitment to sustainable practices, ensuring that the treasures of our past are protected responsibly for future generations. DakshinaChitra extends its heartfelt gratitude to Muthoot Finance to join and be part of this significant milestone as the museum forges a path toward a greener, more sustainable future.”

Mr. George Alexander Muthoot, Managing Director of Muthoot Finance, said, “At Muthoot Finance, we believe that supporting art and culture goes hand in hand with promoting sustainability. We are committed towards supporting initiatives that empower the society and environment. Being a supporter of DakshinaChitra Museum’s journey towards green energy, we reaffirm our commitment to preserving heritage while paving the way for a sustainable future.”

DakshinaChitra Museum’s solar power initiative reflects its commitment to achieving the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). By reducing reliance on conventional energy, the museum is not only lowering its carbon footprint but also setting an example for cultural institutions nationwide.

Being at the forefront of CSR efforts, Muthoot Finance has always focused on Education, Health, and Environment (EHE). The company strives to continue its legacy of making significant contributions to environmental stewardship and community development, ensuring that initiatives like these serve as catalysts for broader change.