The collection of 11-century Chola artifacts which is also known as the “Leiden Plates”, were officially returned by the Netherlands to India after preserving them for centuries. The handover were held during Narendra Modi, Prime Minister of India’s visit to the Netherlands. This marks an important moment in the restoration of the India’s cultural heritage
The plates were originated from the powerful Chola Empire era and are believed to date back to the reigns of Rajaraja Chola I and Rajendra Chola I during the 11th century. The collection consists of 21 large copper plates, three smaller copper plates, and a bronze ring bearing the royal Chola seal.
The inscriptions on the plates are written in both Tamil and Sanskrit. The inscriptions document royal grants and donations made to a Buddhist vihara in Nagapattinam, Tamil Nadu, offering deep insight into the Chola administration, trade relations, language, and religious harmony during the empire’s peak.
The plates were taken to the Netherlands during the Dutch colonial presence in coastal Tamil Nadu in the 18th century. Over time, they became part of the collection at Leiden University, where they were preserved and studied for generations. India had reportedly been seeking the return of the artifacts since 2012 as part of ongoing efforts to reclaim historically significant cultural items taken abroad during colonial rule.
Prime Minister of India, Narendra Modi stated his gratitude to the government of Netherlands and Leiden University for preserving the plates safely since the mid-19th century. The return of the Chola artifacts is seen as a significant cultural and historical milestone for India, especially for Tamil heritage preservation.
Beyond their archaeological value, the inscriptions reflect the influence and sophistication of the Chola civilisation, which was renowned for its maritime strength, governance, temple architecture, and contributions to South Indian history.
Source: AstroUlagam, NDTV
