Bengaluru beekeeper opens Karnataka’s first Bee Museum in Shivamogga

Shivamogga: Growing up in Chitradurga, Apoorva BV spent hours watching insects and birds. That childhood interest led the Bengaluru-based beekeeper and educator to set up a one-of-its-kind Bee Museum at the Keladi Shivappa Nayaka University of Agricultural and Horticultural Sciences in Iruvakki, Shivamogga.

Inaugurated last week, the museum features live observation hives, models of native Indian bee species, and displays on beekeeping tools and pollination. The goal: reduce fear around bees and highlight their role in agriculture and biodiversity.

“Most people know only the honey bee. But India has 700+ species. If we lose them, our food systems are in trouble,” Apoorva said.

Open to students and the public on weekdays, the museum will also support university research and farmer training. Faculty hope it boosts scientific beekeeping in Shivamogga, a district with a growing apiary community. “This is for every kid who still watches insects in the backyard,” Apoorva said.