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During Prime Minister Narendra Modi's recent three-day visit to the United States, the US government made a significant gesture of goodwill by returning 297 antiquities that had been stolen or trafficked from India. These artefacts, representing a period spanning nearly 4,000 years from 2000 BCE to 1900 CE, are a testament to India's rich cultural heritage and its enduring influence on global civilization.
The repatriation of these antiquities marks a pivotal moment in the strengthening of cultural understanding and exchange between India and the US. The act carries symbolic weight, underscoring the commitment of both nations to safeguarding cultural heritage and preventing the illicit trafficking of stolen artifacts. Prime Minister Modi expressed his gratitude for the support received from President Biden in returning these artefacts, stating that they represent not just historical material culture but also the core of India's civilization and consciousness.
The returned antiquities showcase the diversity of India's artistic and cultural traditions. Among the items are a sandstone Apsara from central India, a bronze Jain Tirthankar, a terracotta vase, and an anthropomorphic copper figure, each reflecting different periods and regions of India's history. This event reinforces the understanding that cultural property is not merely tangible objects but embodiments of a nation's collective memory and identity. It demonstrates the global recognition of India's cultural significance and the importance of preserving its heritage for future generations.
The US has consistently demonstrated its commitment to returning stolen cultural artifacts to their rightful owners. In 2016, they returned 10 artefacts, followed by 157 in 2021 and 105 in 2023. With the recent return of 297 antiquities, the total number of artifacts returned to India by the US has reached 578, the highest number returned by any country. This commitment reflects a broader global trend towards strengthening cultural cooperation and combatting the illicit trade of stolen artifacts.
Source: PM Modi in US: Washington hands over 297 antiquities smuggled out of India