In New Delhi, the home of Aditya Vij serves as a captivating museum of antiquities, showcasing relics from various eras that transport visitors back in time. Aditya Vij, a dedicated anthropologist, has spent decades collecting thousands of artifacts that span several centuries, meticulously documenting their significance and societal impact.
Vij’s collection includes an eclectic array of items such as vintage cameras, rusty typewriters, and even matchboxes once used for lighting contraband cigarettes. His passion for collecting began at the tender age of eight when he stumbled upon his first matchbox while exploring with his father. This early discovery has blossomed into an impressive collection of over 22,000 matchboxes, many of which are over a century old and feature designs reflecting religious and political themes of their time.
Vij emphasizes that the thrill of the hunt for these collectibles adds a layer of excitement to his passion. He believes that matchboxes encapsulate the essence of different cultures throughout history. He explains, “It is not just the possession of these trinkets, but the process of hunting for them that is exhilarating.” The preservation of history, he argues, compels individuals to reflect on a time when craftsmanship was paramount and life moved at a more deliberate pace.
Some of the artifacts in Vij’s collection came to him by chance. One notable acquisition occurred years ago when he spotted a scrap dealer preparing to destroy an old radio. Reacting quickly, Vij intervened and purchased the radio, which now holds a place of honor among his vintage items. He recalls, “Thirty more seconds and I would have lost it; sometimes it takes vigilance and quick action.”
Vij envisions creating a museum out of his home, aiming to establish a physical space where younger generations can learn about past innovations. He believes that without such efforts, these poignant objects will be lost amidst the rapid advancement of modern technology. “What was once familiar has become rare, often forgotten, leaving only traces of nostalgia and memories,” Vij reflects.
As technology evolves, Vij finds himself increasingly receiving requests from parents eager to introduce their children to the artifacts of the past. Many interested individuals wish to observe how typewriters function or how photographs were captured using film cameras. He notices a strong sense of urgency when children express surprise at the existence of these once-common items. “When they tell me how they had no idea about these objects, I feel a stronger urgency to preserve history,” he states.
Over the past few years, the rapid technological changes have rendered various gadgets from Vij’s childhood obsolete almost overnight. He believes that archiving these memories and tools is essential for fostering a deeper appreciation of history among younger generations. “I hope they understand the significance of history and carry it forward by preserving it,” he concludes.
