Oxford University to Return 500-Year-Old Stolen Bronze Idol to India

In an effort to repatriate stolen objects, Oxford University decided to return a 500-year-old bronze idol to India. The 60-centimeter-tall idol, depicting Saint Tirumankai Alvar, was reportedly stolen from Tamil Nadu and later acquired by the Ashomolean Museum at Oxford University through a Sotheby’s auction in 1967. This decision aligns with the broader movement toward cultural restitution and reflects a growing awareness and sensitivity to the issue.

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