Inputs by Alekhya Chavan
In a ceremony held at the Consulate General of India in New York, American authorities repatriated (returning something to the country of origin) 105 ancient artifacts to India. These artifacts (antiques) date from the 2nd to the 19th century CE, and are made of materials like terracotta, stone, metal, and wood.
Out of the 105 artifacts, 47 are from Eastern India, 27 from Southern India, 22 from Central India, 6 from Northern India, and 3 from Western India.
Around 50 of them represent Hinduism, Jainism, and Islam, and the remaining held cultural importance.
Over the years, India and the US have been working together to prevent the illegal trade of cultural property.
The ceremony was attended by representatives from both India and the US, including India’s Ambassador to the US, Mr. Taranjit Singh Sandhu, Consul General, Shri Randhir Jaiswal, and officials from the Manhattan District Attorney’s Office.
Mr. Sandhu, India’s Ambassador, at the event, thanked the US authorities for their efforts in finding and bringing back the artifacts to India. He also highlighted that these items were not just beautiful artworks but held significant value in showcasing the country’s heritage and culture.
Since 2016, the US has returned a total of 278 cultural artifacts to India. This is the third tranche repatriated since 2016.
Some of the important pieces that have been returned include:
– 12-13th century Marble Arch, from Rajasthan
– 14-15th century Apsara, from Central India
– 14-15th century Sambandar, from South India
– 17-18th century Bronze Nataraja, from South India
The US has also helped other countries like Libya, Pakistan, etc. get back its stolen antiques.
Image Credit: All images expect the collage Tweeted by the Indian Consulate in New York. The collage has been Tweeted by @ShineHamesha