Australia to repatriate antiquities of cultural significance to India, PM Modi expresses thanks to PM Albanese
Melbourne, July 9
Australia is set to repatriate several antiquities of cultural significance to India, underlining the importance of cooperation and the protection and preservation of cultural heritage.
Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri, in a press briefing on Thursday, said, "Prime Minister Modi thanked Prime Minister Albanese for the repatriation to India of cultural artifacts."
According to the Ministry of Culture, these artefacts include a ceremonial bronze trident of Goddess Bhadrakali, a majestic granite idol of Nandi, and a basalt sculpture depicting the six-headed Karttikeya.
All of these items date back to the 11th and 12th centuries and were originally sourced from historic temples in Tamil Nadu.
Earlier today, at the India-Australia Joint Summit statement, the Prime Ministers welcomed progress on the voluntary and unconditional repatriation of the First Nations ancestor held in India, and separately, the repatriation of Telugu remains housed in Australia.
Prime Minister Modi thanked Prime Minister Albanese for the voluntary return to India of several cultural artefacts held in Australian collecting institutions.
Meanwhile earlier on Thursday, Prime Minister Narendra Modi participated in a community reception programme by the Indian diaspora in Melbourne where he lauded the community and highlighted the strength of partnership between India and Australia.
The Ministry of External Affairs Spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal on Thursday in a post on X said how Prime Minister Modi and Albanese noted the important role of the Indian diaspora and students in strengthening of India-Australia relations.
"The warmth, energy and affection of the community underscored the enduring bonds that connect the two countries. PM Modi underscored the Indian community's contributions to Australia's growth through merit, multiculturalism and mateship. He further highlighted the contributions of the Indian diaspora in the transformative growth India is witnessing," he added.
In a post on X, Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese said, "Our Indian community has contributed so much to the story of modern Australia. And it's made our country a better place."
Prime Minister Modi's visit to Australia has seen 18 major outcomes spanning defence, maritime security, energy, critical technologies, education, mining, research and cultural cooperation, significantly expanding the India-Australia Comprehensive Strategic Partnership.
— ANI
Reader Comments
While I'm happy about the artifacts returning, let's not forget that many more are still in museums across the UK and other countries. This is just the beginning. Also, I hope proper security and maintenance is ensured for these ancient idols when they come back.
Excellent diplomatic move by PM Modi. Getting back artifacts, strengthening defense ties, and promoting Indian diaspora - all in one visit. The six-headed Karttikeya sculpture is a masterpiece of Chola art that belongs in Tamil Nadu temples.
Great to see Australia taking the right step. Many countries need to follow this example. Cultural heritage should never be taken without permission. India's ancient treasures deserve to be displayed where they belong, telling stories of their origin.
Wonderful! As a Tamilian, this is especially emotional for me. These artifacts come from our ancient temples in Tamil Nadu. The Chola period art is world-famous and it's right that they come back. But we need to ensure they're properly displayed in museums, not stored away in basements. Also happy to see the First Nations remains issue being addressed by both sides. True cultural cooperation! 🇮🇳🤝🇦🇺
This is a significant step for reconciliation and cultural justice. Glad to see Australia acknowledging the importance of returning cultural property. The 18 outcomes from PM Modi's visit show how deep the partnership between our countries is getting.
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