Leiden Copper Plates UPSC History Notes

Context: Leiden Copper Plates
India received the Chola-era Anaimangalam (Leiden) copper plates from the Netherlands, marking a major step in repatriation of India’s stolen antiquities and cultural heritage.

1. Anaimangalam Copper Plates

  • Chola-period copper inscriptions written in Tamil and Sanskrit.
  • Record land grants made to a Buddhist vihara at Nagapattinam, Tamil Nadu.
  • Also called Leiden Copper Plates as they were preserved at Leiden University, Netherlands.

2. Chola Kings Mentioned

  • Raja Raja Chola I (985–1014 CE): Ordered construction of the vihara.
  • Rajendra Chola I (1014–1044 CE): Expanded grants to the vihara.
  • Kulottunga Chola I (1070–1120 CE): Continued patronage and support.

3. Historical Importance

  • Reflect Chola maritime links with Southeast Asia/Srivijaya kingdom.
  • Highlight Chola administration, temple grants, and overseas cultural influence.
  • Carry Chola royal symbols like tiger, fish, and bow.

4. Importance of Repatriation

  • Restores India’s cultural and historical heritage.
  • Helps fight illegal antiquities trafficking.
  • Encourages return of more Indian artefacts from foreign museums and institutions.
Leiden Copper Plates
Leiden Copper Plates
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