Assam CM Signs MoU with British Museum for Sacred Textile Return

Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma is set to sign a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the British Museum, facilitating the return of the sacred Vrindavani Vastra to Assam under a loan agreement. This significant step is aimed at restoring a treasured piece of Assamese heritage, which is currently housed in the British Museum.

On November 16, 2025, during his visit to London, Sarma emphasized the importance of the Vrindavani Vastra, describing it as a “timeless masterpiece” that embodies the devotion and spirit of Mahapurush Srimanta Sankardev, a 15th-century saint and reformer. He stated, “Our Government has begun the process to bring this historic treasure back to Assam, where it truly belongs.” The textile, renowned for depicting the dasavatara (ten incarnations) of Lord Krishna, is a vital symbol of Assamese culture and spirituality.

Details of the Loan Agreement

Earlier in August, Chief Minister Sarma announced progress on this initiative, revealing that the British Museum is willing to loan the Vrindavani Vastra for a period of 18 months in 2027. The loan is contingent upon the establishment of a museum in Assam that meets required environmental standards. Sarma indicated that the state government has already allocated land for this new facility, which will be constructed with support from the JSW Group as part of its Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiatives.

In a letter addressed to Sarma, Dr. Nicholas Cullinan OBE, Director of the British Museum, expressed the institution’s commitment to supporting this initiative, highlighting the shared goal of honouring the Assamese textile tradition. This collaboration is poised to foster cultural exchange and celebrate the rich heritage of Assam.

Significance of the Vrindavani Vastra

The Vrindavani Vastra is much more than a textile; it represents a blend of art, spirituality, and culture. Crafted with intricate designs, it serves as a testament to the Vaishnava ethos and the craftsmanship of Assamese artisans. Sarma’s efforts to bring this artefact back to Assam are a part of a broader strategy to enhance the state’s cultural landscape and promote its historical significance.

During his first day in London, Sarma also visited the city’s waterfront, noting the importance of learning from global best practices for the transformation of Guwahati’s riverfront. He engaged with members of the Assamese diaspora, reinforcing connections with the community abroad.

This MoU signing is expected to be a pivotal moment for Assam, reinforcing the Chief Minister’s governance pillars of “Vikas” (development) and “Virasat” (heritage). As the state moves forward with this initiative, it aims to not only reclaim a piece of its cultural history but also to strengthen its international ties and promote tourism in the region.