Netherlands Returns Historic Chola Copper Plates

On 16th May 2026, the Netherlands handed over the 11th-century Leiden Copper Plates to India during Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit, marking a major step in cultural heritage restitution and India-Netherlands cooperation.

Key Points

Historic Artefacts: The Leiden Copper Plates are royal Chola-era inscriptions dating back to the 11th century (Note: The artefacts are popularly known as Leiden copper plates because they have been in the possession of Leiden University for almost two centuries).
Chola Connection: The plates bear the seals of Chola rulers Rajendra Chola I and Kulottunga Chola I.
Languages Used: The inscriptions are written in Sanskrit and Tamil.
Historical Importance: The plates provide details on Chola administration, taxation, irrigation, land reforms, and maritime trade.
Religious Harmony: The inscriptions mention grants made for a Buddhist vihara linked to Srivijaya rulers of Southeast Asia.