In a significant development bolstering cultural ties between the United States and India, around 105 trafficked antiquities are set to be returned to their rightful home. A repatriation ceremony, symbolising the commitment to safeguarding cultural heritage, was held at the Indian Consulate in New York on Monday.
The repatriation follows the recent visit of Prime Minister Narendra Modi to the United States, during which the two nations formalized a Cultural Property Agreement. The agreement aims to facilitate the smooth return of stolen ancient artifacts and combat the illicit trafficking of India’s priceless heritage items.
Spanning a period of 1,600 years, the returned antiquities encompass a rich historical tapestry, ranging from the 1st century BC to the 15th century AD. Among the notable artifacts is a terracotta Yakshi plaque dating back to the 1st century BC originating from Eastern India, and a red sandstone Dancing Ganesha from the 9th century from Central India.
Additionally, a 10th-century Kubera, also from Central India, along with several other valuable antiquities crafted in marble, terracotta, and sandstone, will be repatriated. Several of these items were reportedly smuggled abroad through the actions of notorious antique dealer Subhash Kapoor, who is now incarcerated.
The 105 artifacts represent a diverse geographic spread within India, with approximately 50 of them reflecting religious subjects from Hinduism, Jainism, and Islam.
Upon their return to India, the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI), operating under the Ministry of Culture, will play a crucial role in deciding where to put each artifact. The ASI will determine whether an item should be returned to its original place of discovery and subsequently handed over to the respective state government or, alternatively, be displayed in a dedicated museum for repatriated antiquities located at Purana Qila in Delhi.
Prime Minister Modi, while on his visit to the US, expressed his delight at America’s decision to return the stolen antiquities to India, acknowledging the significance of these cultural treasures.
This positive development not only strengthens cultural bonds between India and the United States but also serves as a testament to the global community’s growing commitment to combatting the illegal trade of cultural artifacts.
Moreover, it underscores the importance of international collaboration in preserving and safeguarding the shared cultural heritage of nations.
Looking ahead, India should actively explore the possibility of signing a similar agreement with the United Kingdom to address the trafficking of antiques and retrieve artifacts from the international chor bazaar, the British Museum. Thereby, further reinforcing the nation’s dedication to the protection of India’s rich cultural legacy.
As these antiquities prepare to embark on their journey back to Indian soil, they carry with them not only their historical value but also the potential to enrich India’s cultural landscape, inspiring generations to come and fostering a deeper appreciation for the shared heritage of one of the oldest civilisations in history.