Anatarang Sex Health Art Gallery is a one-of-its-kind museum that educates people about sex in a fun manner. Set up in the midst of Kamatipura, the red light district of Mumbai, this museum has interesting exhibits that talk about sex. It has attracted many prostitutes as a storehouse of relevant information. Their clients also make a visit to this place.

India had been trying to fight AIDS and STDs with the help of lectures and by distributing literature in schools, colleges and red light areas. This museum has become a unique and interesting way to disseminate the same information. According to the UN, about 5.7 million people were infected with HIV in 2007. However, 2012 has seen a 57% dip in number of new HIV infections over the last 10 years. Certainly, this museum would have something to do with it.

Anatarang means ‘intimate’ and the museum has many exhibits showcasing the hows and whats of sex. This is a one-room gallery with interesting displays that provide information about sexual health. This gallery is also the only one in South East Asia devoted to this sensitive subject.

Sex remains a taboo subject in India and the museum has become an engaging way to exchange such information. The authorities here undertake fun activities to talk about sex such as street plays and condom parties. They work as an interactive means of spreading sex education.

History

Not as glamorous as the museums of Amsterdam, Anatarang Sex was developed as a result of joint efforts of the Municipal Corporation of Greater Mumbai (MCGM) and Mumbai District Aids Control Society (MDACS). It was set up under the guidance of Dr Prakash Sarang. The museum was a drive to control the rising number of AIDS cases across the country. The museum was initially set in 2002 in the red light district of Mumbai, Kamatipura.

Features

• A variety of visuals here have reproductive organs demonstrating the reproductive process.
• The visuals include charts, models and different aids to help better understanding.
• On display are also safe sex props to eradicate sexually transmitted diseases (STD).
• The museum also educates visitors about the various forms of sexual intercourse.
• Using different means, the museum also stresses on safe sex and hygiene.
•  Sculptures of 20 humans are used to demonstrate extensive sex education.
• The museum teaches local groups and sex workers free information regarding the same.
• There has been a gradual rise in the number of visitors to the gallery, which includes prostitutes as well.

On Exhibit

The entrance of this museum has a lingam, which is a phallic symbol of the existence of Lord Shiva.

• Verses from the Kamasutra are displayed at various spots.
• There are models displaying the act of sex.
• Models also display the various sexual diseases that one can contract.
• Some exhibits also display the process of child birth.
• The tiles here have been painted to give it the resemblance of a sperm.

Visitor's Information

The museum does not charge an entry fee.