Prime Minister Narendra Modi is successfully repatriating invaluable artifacts and ancient Indian relics from the United States, including items dating back at least 7,000 years. A total of 157 artifacts were handed over to PM Modi, eliciting his profound gratitude for the United States’ commitment to returning these antiquities to India, as stated by the government.
During his three-day visit to the US, marked by bilateral meetings and a crucial address to the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA), PM Modi, along with US President Joe Biden, pledged to enhance efforts against theft, illegal trade, and trafficking of cultural objects.
The diverse collection of 157 artifacts encompasses a wide range, from a 10th-century bas relief panel of Revanta in sandstone to a delicate 12th-century bronze Nataraja, measuring 8.5 cm. The items span from the 11th century to the 14th century, with some historic pieces dating back to 2000 BC and the 2nd century CE.
Out of the 157 artifacts, 71 are of cultural significance, while the remaining half includes figurines associated with Hinduism (60), Buddhism (16), and Jainism (9), crafted from materials such as metal, stone, and terracotta.
This initiative aligns with the Modi government’s ongoing efforts to repatriate India’s antiquities globally, addressing historical thefts perpetrated by colonialists. The results are evident, as between 2014 and 2021, over 200 antiquities have either been returned or are in the process of being repatriated, a significant contrast to the meager one antiquity returned between 2004 and 2014.
The recovery spans various countries, including the US, Australia, Singapore, Germany, Canada, and the UK. Notably, the National Gallery of Australia announced plans to return stolen artworks worth $2.2 million to India in July.
These reclaimed antiquities originated from multiple regions across India, attesting to the success of the government’s endeavors. Importantly, no thefts have been reported from centrally protected monuments or site museums under the Archaeological Survey of India in recent years, marking a crucial achievement in safeguarding India’s cultural heritage.