US Returns Stolen Indian Antiquities Worth Rs 116 Crore to India
United States hands over 657 stolen Indian antiquities valued at 14 million dollars following investigation into smuggling networks involving Subhash Kapoor and Nancy Wiener marking major step in cultural restitution efforts
- US returns Indian antiquities worth Rs 116 crore to India
- US investigation exposes Subhash Kapoor smuggling network
- US returns 657 antiquities including rare Buddha statue
In a significant move towards restoring cultural heritage, the United States has handed over 657 stolen Indian antiquities valued at around 14 million dollars, approximately Rs 116 crore. The transfer took place during an official event in New York, where authorities formally returned the artifacts to Indian representatives.
The handover was led by Alvin L Bragg Jr, who presented the recovered items to officials from the Indian Consulate. The recovery is part of an ongoing investigation into international smuggling networks that have trafficked cultural artifacts across borders for years.
Officials revealed that many of these antiquities were linked to networks associated with Subhash Kapoor and Nancy Wiener. These networks are believed to have illegally sourced artifacts from temples and museums across India, particularly from states like Madhya Pradesh and Chhattisgarh, before moving them overseas.
Among the returned items are several rare and highly valuable pieces, including a bronze Avalokiteshwara sculpture and a red sandstone Buddha statue, both considered culturally and historically significant. These artifacts highlight the scale of loss India faced due to illicit trafficking over the years.
Authorities in the United States emphasized their continued efforts to trace and recover stolen cultural property. They also stated that further restitutions could follow as investigations progress.
Indian officials welcomed the move and expressed appreciation for the cooperation extended by US authorities. Binaya Pradhan acknowledged the importance of such actions in preserving India’s heritage.
Subhash Kapoor, identified as a key figure in the smuggling network, was convicted in India in 2022. Efforts to bring him to the United States for further legal proceedings are currently ongoing.
