Chola-Era Copper Plates Repatriated to India After 300 Years
Chola-Era Plates Return to India After 300 Years, PM Modi Elated
Image: Asianet Newsable
India has successfully repatriated 11-century Chola-era copper plates from the Netherlands after over 300 years. Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed pride in this cultural victory, highlighting the plates' historical significance and their role in documenting the Chola dynasty's governance and maritime strength.
- 01The repatriated copper plates include 21 large and three small plates, documenting land grants for a Buddhist Vihara.
- 02The plates were preserved at Leiden University in the Netherlands since the 19th century.
- 03The return was part of India's ongoing efforts to reclaim cultural heritage, with diplomatic negotiations starting in 2012.
- 04The inscriptions are in both Sanskrit and Tamil, showcasing the secular governance of Rajaraja Chola I.
- 05The plates were taken to Europe in the 1700s during Dutch colonial rule over Nagapattinam.
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Prime Minister Narendra Modi celebrated the return of the 11-century Chola-era copper plates, known as the Anaimangalam plates, from the Netherlands, marking a significant cultural and diplomatic achievement for India. The plates, which include 21 large and three small copper pieces, document land grants for the upkeep of a Buddhist monastery and reflect the governance of the Chola dynasty. They were officially returned in a ceremony attended by both Modi and Dutch Prime Minister Rob Jetten, emphasizing India's success in reclaiming its heritage. The plates were preserved at Leiden University since the 19th century and are historically significant as they provide insights into the Chola dynasty's maritime strength and relations with Southeast Asian countries. The journey of these artefacts began in the 1700s when they were taken by a missionary during Dutch colonial rule. The repatriation process began in 2012, culminating in this successful return.
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The return of the Chola plates reinforces India's cultural heritage and pride, particularly among the Tamil community.
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