Indore: At Last, Rajwada Sound & Light Show, Strikes Gold  

Indore (Madhya Pradesh): The light and sound show at Indore’s iconic Rajwada—an immersive retelling of the city’s rich and regal past—is not only drawing packed audiences but also emerging as a steady revenue generator for the Directorate of Archaeology, Archives and Museums.

Despite being hosted in the legendary voice of Amitabh Bachchan, the show that began in March 2023 drew a muted response from the audience but today this heritage experience that blends dramatic narration, music, and lighting to recreate chapters of the city’s Maratha history and Holkar legacy has turned over a new leaf.

According to official data, the department earned ₹12.6 lakh between April 2023 and March 2024, while the revenue from April 2024 to May 2025 crossed ₹15 lakh, averaging more than ₹1 lakh per month in the current year. The show runs in two languages Hindi and English with tickets priced at ₹150 for adults and ₹75 for children. Two shows are held each evening after the Rajwada closes to regular visitors.

Officials attribute the turnaround to upgraded technology, improved storytelling, and growing word-of-mouth enthusiasm among tourists.

Overcoming early hurdles

In its early months, the show was criticised for dim visuals and muffled audio. Responding to feedback, the department replaced outdated 5000-lumen projectors with cutting-edge 20000-lumen ones and enhanced the sound system. Still, since the audience sits in an open-air courtyard, shows are suspended during heavy rain to protect equipment and ensure comfort. Computerised ticketing has also been introduced for smoother, more transparent management.

History lessons for students

In a fresh outreach effort, the Archaeology Department is now collaborating with schools across the city to organise special educational shows for students. The goal is to inspire historical curiosity and civic pride among the younger generation by presenting Indore’s past in a format that’s both engaging and visually captivating. Officials hope the move will also give a boost to local cultural tourism.