Indian Artefacts Still Held by Britain: A Look Beyond the Kohinoor
Beyond Kohinoor: Which Indian artefacts do the British still possess
Firstpost
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New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani's call for the return of the Kohinoor diamond has reignited discussions about other Indian artefacts still held by the UK. Notable items include the Sultanganj Buddha, the Amravati stupa, Maharaja Ranjit Singh's throne, Tipu Sultan's mechanical tiger, and the Ambika idol, all of which have significant historical and cultural value.
- 01The Kohinoor diamond is not the only artefact India seeks to reclaim from Britain.
- 02The Sultanganj Buddha, a significant sculpture, is currently housed in Birmingham.
- 03The Amravati stupa and its railings were excavated and sent to the British Museum in the 19th century.
- 04Maharaja Ranjit Singh's throne is displayed at the Victoria and Albert Museum.
- 05Tipu Sultan's mechanical tiger symbolizes the colonial loot taken by the British.
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The recent appeal by New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani for the return of the Kohinoor diamond has highlighted India's ongoing efforts to reclaim various artefacts taken during British colonial rule. Among these is the Sultanganj Buddha, a 7.5-foot statue from the Gupta-Pala period, currently in the Birmingham Museum and Art Gallery. The Amravati stupa, an important Buddhist site from the 3rd century BC, and its railings were excavated in the 18th century and are now displayed at the British Museum. Another significant artefact is Maharaja Ranjit Singh's throne, crafted in the 1820s, which is showcased at the Victoria and Albert Museum. Additionally, Tipu Sultan's mechanical toy, known as Tipu's Tiger, represents the colonial plunder and is also housed in the Victoria and Albert Museum. Lastly, the Ambika idol, a marble statue from the 11th century, has sparked debate over its true identity and rightful ownership, with calls for its return to India. These artefacts not only represent India's rich cultural heritage but also the historical injustices of colonialism.
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The return of these artefacts could enhance India's cultural heritage and provide a sense of justice regarding colonial history.
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