Chola-era Anaimangalam Plates, in possession of Leiden University since 1862, returned to India
The Chola-era Anaimangalam Plates have been returned to India after being held by Leiden University since 1862. The formal ceremony took place in The Hague, attended by Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Dutch Prime Minister Rob Jetten. These plates are significant historical artifacts that document the Chola dynasty and its connections with the Srivijaya Empire.
- ▪The Anaimangalam Plates were lost around 300 years ago and have been in the possession of Leiden University since 1862.
- ▪The Indian government requested their return in 2023, leading to an investigation that concluded their removal was involuntary.
- ▪The plates will be handed over to the Archaeological Survey of India for future exhibition decisions.
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Chola-era plates, currently in the possession of Leiden University in the Netherlands, has been returned to India. The plates were presented on Saturday (May 16, 2026) during a formal ceremony in the presence of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Dutch Prime Minister Rob Jetten in The Hague. They will be officially transferred to India at a later date. Scholars suggest installing Rajendra Chola’s statue at CholagangamThe plates, also known as the Anaimangalam Plates, were lost around 300 years ago and have reportedly been in the possession of the university since 1862. They are considered important sources of royal charters in south India and provide valuable historical information about the relationship between the Chola and Srivijaya Empires.
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