Rare Tamil-inscribed artefacts linked to Rajendra Chola I and Rajaraja Chola I to return to India after being preserved in Leiden University since the 19th century
Guwahati: Prime Minister Narendra Modi welcomed the return of rare Chola-era copper plates from the Netherlands, describing the development as “a moment of joy for all Indians.”
Sharing the announcement on social media, Modi said the artefacts date back to the 11th century and hold immense historical and cultural significance for India. He also stated that he joined Dutch Prime Minister Mark Rutte during an event marking the occasion.
The collection includes 21 large and three small copper plates carrying inscriptions primarily written in Tamil. According to Modi, the plates formally recorded a promise made to Emperor Rajendra Chola I by his father Rajaraja Chola I and also celebrated the achievements and influence of the Chola dynasty.
“Most of the inscriptions on them are engraved in Tamil, one of the world’s most beautiful languages,” Modi wrote, while highlighting India’s pride in the Cholas’ maritime strength and cultural legacy.
The Prime Minister further thanked the Government of the Netherlands and Leiden University for preserving the artefacts since the 19th century before facilitating their return to India.
The return of the copper plates is being viewed as another significant step in India’s ongoing efforts to recover and preserve its historical heritage.
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