Ministry of Culture Acts to Prevent Auction of Piprahwa Relics by Sotheby’s
The Indian Ministry of Culture has taken decisive action to prevent the auction of the sacred Piprahwa Relics by Sotheby’s Hong Kong, emphasizing the nation’s dedication to safeguarding its cultural and religious heritage. These relics, unearthed from the Piprahwa Stupa—believed to be the ancient city of Kapilavastu, the birthplace of Lord Buddha—are of profound historical and spiritual importance. The Ministry’s swift response highlights the urgency of protecting these artifacts, which include bone fragments and ornate caskets, from being sold.
Significance of the Piprahwa Relics
The Piprahwa Relics consist of various items, including bone fragments, soapstone and crystal caskets, a sandstone coffer, and offerings such as gold ornaments and gemstones. These artifacts were excavated in 1898 by William Claxton Peppé. An inscription in Brahmi script on one of the caskets confirms their association with the Buddha, indicating they were deposited by the Sakya clan. Most of these relics were transferred to the Indian Museum in Kolkata in 1899 and are classified as ‘AA’ antiquities under Indian law, which prohibits their removal or sale. Although some bone relics were gifted to the King of Siam, a portion retained by Peppé’s descendants is now listed for auction, raising concerns about their legality and cultural significance.
Government Actions to Halt the Auction
Upon discovering the planned auction, the Ministry of Culture acted promptly. It gathered detailed information about the auction and issued a legal notice to Sotheby’s Hong Kong, demanding an immediate halt. Additionally, the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) reached out to the Consulate General of Hong Kong, urging local authorities to intervene. During a bilateral meeting on May 2, 2025, Culture Minister Shri Gajendra Singh Shekhawat discussed the matter with Rt Hon Lisa Nandy, the UK Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport. He stressed the cultural and religious importance of the relics and called for urgent action to stop the auction and facilitate their repatriation.
Further Steps and International Cooperation
On May 5, 2025, the Secretary of Culture convened a high-level review meeting to strategize further actions. The Ministry of External Affairs has been tasked with engaging embassies in the United Kingdom and Hong Kong to ensure the auction is halted. The Financial Investigation Unit (FIU) has also been directed to collaborate with its Hong Kong counterpart to emphasize the auction’s illegality and ensure adherence to international laws. In response to the legal notice, Ivy Wong, Associate General Counsel at Sotheby’s, assured that the matter is receiving full attention.
Commitment to Cultural Heritage
The Ministry of Culture remains resolute in its mission to protect India’s cultural heritage and secure the return of the Piprahwa Relics. Officials are calling on Sotheby’s Hong Kong to withdraw the relics from auction and work with Indian authorities to restore these sacred artifacts to their rightful home. The ongoing efforts reflect India’s commitment to preserving its rich cultural legacy and ensuring that significant historical items are not lost to commercial interests.
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