INS Gomati Sails Into History, To Become Centrepiece Of Naval Shaurya Museum In Lucknow

Last Updated:October 31, 2025, 14:06 IST

Visitors will be able to explore decks, control rooms, and weapon systems that once patrolled the Indian Ocean, giving them a first-hand sense of the Navy’s might and discipline.

INS Gomati, a guided-missile frigate, retired in May 2022. (Image: Indian Navy)

The mighty warship, INS Gomati, a guided-missile frigate that once guarded India’s seas, is now set to become part of Uttar Pradesh’s history. In a one-of-its-kind move, the UP government is set to transform the decommissioned naval vessel — retired in May 2022 after 34 years of service — into the centrepiece of the upcoming ‘Naval Shaurya Museum’ in Lucknow.

Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, while reviewing the project presentation in a Culture Department meeting on Thursday, directed officials to expedite construction, calling the museum “a living symbol of the Indian Navy’s indomitable courage and maritime excellence." Officials said that the project is expected to complete by 2026.

“The sea has been the churning ground of India’s civilisation. The Indian Navy is a modern expression of that glorious legacy," the Chief Minister said. “This museum will not merely showcase our naval heritage but carry the story of India’s maritime soul to every citizen."

A Ship-Shaped Symbol of Valour and Vision

According to the blueprint, the museum’s design will take the abstract form of a ship, incorporating features such as naval railings, porthole-style windows, and oceanic architectural motifs to give it a distinct maritime identity. The project will combine modern engineering and sustainable design, with natural lighting, cross-ventilation, and eco-friendly construction materials forming the backbone of the structure.

Officials engaged in the construction of the project said the upcoming museum complex will also include an Interpretation Centre, Central Deck, Open-Air Memorial, Thematic Walkways, Exhibition Galleries, Water Fountains, and a Light-and-Sound Arena, making it one of the most ambitious cultural landmarks in the state capital.

Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, during the recent meeting said that the museum must go beyond conventional displays to become “an experience centre." He instructed that digital, interactive, and immersive technologies be used extensively so that visitors can relive India’s naval missions, wars, and technological evolution.

“People should not just see history—they should feel it," he said, further directing that the museum include an informative gallery on Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, considered the pioneer of India’s naval power.

INS Gomati

Officials said the project will comprise two major components — the ‘INS Gomati Shaurya Smarak’ and the ‘Naval Shaurya Vatika.’ Indigenously designed and built warships. Commissioned in 1988, the vessel served with distinction for over three decades, participating in key operations such as Operation Cactus (1988) — to thwart a coup in the Maldives — and Operation Parakram (2001–2002) during the India–Pakistan military standoff.

Now, this historic warship will be preserved within the museum premises as a monument to modern Indian naval history. Visitors will be able to explore the decks, control rooms, and weapon systems that once patrolled the Indian Ocean, giving them a first-hand sense of the Navy’s might and discipline.

The ‘Naval Shaurya Vatika’: A Living Gallery of Naval Power

The Naval Shaurya Vatika, designed as a landscaped experiential zone, will be a key attraction of the project. It will feature iconic naval aircraft and equipment that once served the nation’s maritime defence.

Among its major highlights will be the TU-142 aircraft, which performed long-range maritime reconnaissance and disaster relief operations for 29 years, and the Sea King SK-42B helicopter, which played a vital role in anti-submarine warfare and rescue missions.

Calling it a “living classroom for youth," Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath instructed officials to ensure that the Vatika becomes a dynamic space connecting visitors with modern naval technology and operations.

Moving away from static exhibits, the museum will rely heavily on technology-driven storytelling. Plans include a 7D theatre, aircraft carrier landing simulator, warship simulator, and a submerged Dwarka model depicting the ancient underwater city.

A digital water-screen show, marine life aquarium, and a ‘Dress Like Your Heroes’ activity zone are also being developed to make the space engaging for children and families.

To ensure the project’s timely execution and authenticity, a high-level monitoring committee has been constituted under the chairmanship of the Director General of Tourism. The committee includes members from the Maritime Heritage Society, UP Projects Corporation, and naval experts who will guide the project’s design, storytelling, and curatorial aspects.

Though Uttar Pradesh has no coastline, the Chief Minister said the project portrays India’s effort to reclaim its maritime consciousness—a legacy that once made the Indian Ocean the heart of global trade and culture. “Lucknow’s Naval Shaurya Museum will not only celebrate the Navy’s valor but embody the oceanic soul of India," he added.

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