“Joyous Moment for Every Indian”: 11th-Century Chola Copper Plates Return to India as PM Modi Hails Tamil Heritage and Maritime Legacy

May 17, 2026

The Hague [Netherlands]: India has achieved a significant diplomatic and cultural milestone with the successful repatriation of the 11th-century “Chola Copper Plates” from the Netherlands. The priceless artefacts were formally handed over during a high-profile ceremony on Saturday, attended by Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Dutch Prime Minister Rob Jetten, highlighting strengthening cultural and strategic ties between the two countries.

Prime Minister Modi, currently on a five-nation tour including Sweden, Norway, and Italy, described the moment as a “joyous occasion for every Indian,” expressing pride over the return of the historic inscriptions.

இந்தியர் அனைவருக்கும் ஒரு மகிழ்ச்சிகரமான தருணம்!

11-ம் நூற்றாண்டைச் சேர்ந்த சோழர்கால செப்பேடுகள், நெதர்லாந்தில் இருந்து இந்தியாவிற்குத் திரும்பவும் கொண்டுவரப்பட இருக்கின்றன. இது தொடர்பான விழாவில் பிரதமர் ராப் ஜெட்டன் அவர்களுடன் இணைந்து பங்கேற்றேன்.

சோழர் கால செப்பேடுகள், 21… pic.twitter.com/af4NWacMwt

— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) May 16, 2026

PM Modi Hails Chola Legacy and Tamil Cultural Heritage

Taking to social media platform X, PM Modi said the copper plates reflect the greatness of the Chola dynasty, praising their maritime strength and administrative legacy. He noted that the plates, containing inscriptions in Tamil and Sanskrit, are among the most significant surviving records of ancient Indian governance.

The Prime Minister also appreciated the Netherlands government and Leiden University for preserving the artefacts for decades and supporting their return to India.

11th-Century Artefacts Carry Deep Historical Significance

The Chola Copper Plates—also known as the Leiden or Anaimangalam Copper Plates—consist of 21 large and 3 small plates bound by a bronze ring bearing the royal seal of the Chola Empire. Weighing around 30 kilograms, they document grants made during the reign of Rajaraja Chola I, later formalised by his son Rajendra Chola I.

The inscriptions highlight aspects of ancient Indian statecraft, including revenue grants supporting a Buddhist monastery, and provide rare insight into the administrative and cultural sophistication of the Chola period.

Decades-Long Efforts Lead to Successful Repatriation

India had been pursuing the return of the artefacts since 2012. Their presence in Europe dates back to the 18th century when they were taken to the Netherlands during the colonial era.

The breakthrough came during the 24th session of the Intergovernmental Committee on Return and Restitution, which confirmed India’s rightful claim and encouraged bilateral negotiations, ultimately leading to their return during the Prime Minister’s visit.