Chola-era Anaimangalam Plates Returned to India from Leiden University
Chola-era Anaimangalam Plates, in possession of Leiden University since 1862, returned to India
The Hindu
Image: The Hindu
The Chola-era Anaimangalam Plates, held by Leiden University in the Netherlands since 1862, were returned to India on May 16, 2026. The plates, significant for their historical inscriptions, document the relationship between the Chola and Srivijaya Empires and will be handed over to the Archaeological Survey of India for further exhibition.
- 01The Anaimangalam Plates consist of 21 copper plates weighing around 30 kg, inscribed in Sanskrit and Tamil.
- 02The plates document the donation of 26 villages for a Buddhist shrine by the Malay king of Srivijaya.
- 03The return was facilitated after an investigation found the plates were excavated by the Dutch East India Company without consent.
- 04S. Vijay Kumar, a cultural enthusiast, emphasized the significance of the plates for understanding maritime diplomacy and cultural exchange.
- 05Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed gratitude to the Netherlands for the return of the plates, calling it a 'joyous moment for every Indian.'
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The Anaimangalam Plates, significant artifacts from the Chola dynasty, were officially returned to India during a ceremony on May 16, 2026, attended by Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Dutch Prime Minister Rob Jetten in The Hague. These plates, which have been in the possession of Leiden University since 1862, are crucial for understanding the historical ties between the Chola and Srivijaya Empires. Weighing approximately 30 kg, the 21 copper plates are inscribed in both Sanskrit and Tamil, detailing the genealogy of the Chola dynasty and the reign of King Rajaraja I. They document the donation of 26 villages for a Buddhist shrine constructed by the Malay king of Srivijaya in Nagapattinam, India.
The return was prompted by a request from the Indian government, following an investigation that revealed the plates were likely excavated by the Dutch East India Company between 1687 and 1700 without consent. Cultural advocate S. Vijay Kumar highlighted the plates' importance, stating they represent not just antiquities but also a rich history of maritime diplomacy and cultural exchange. The plates will be handed over to the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI), which will determine their future exhibition in India.
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The return of the Anaimangalam Plates enhances India's cultural heritage and provides an opportunity for educational exhibitions, enriching the understanding of Chola history.
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