Return of the Piprahwa Gems: India Reclaims Historic Treasure

After more than a century, a collection of jewels associated with Buddha's remains has made its way back to India. This follows the Indian government's intervention, which halted a planned auction of the gems in Hong Kong earlier this year.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi celebrated the return of these cultural treasures, known as the Piprahwa Gems, calling it a proud moment for India. The gems, which date back to the Mauryan Empire, were uncovered by a Briton in 1898 in Piprahwa, northern India.

The collection, which includes over 300 pieces of amethyst, topaz, and pearls, will be displayed publicly in India. This marks a significant step in reclaiming India's ancient heritage, achieved through a collaboration between the Indian government and Godrej Industries, the buyer identified by Sotheby's.

(With inputs from agencies.)