Sotheby’s returns Buddha-linked jewels to India after 127 years

Auction house Sotheby’s has returned a set of sacred jewels believed to be linked to the Buddha’s remains to India. The Mumbai-based conglomerate Godrej Industries Group has acquired the jewels, Sotheby’s said. Adding that it was “delighted” to facilitate the return, following two months of negotiations. The relics will now go on permanent



public display in India, the auction house said.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced the return on Wednesday, calling it a “proud and joyous moment” and a victory for the country’s cultural heritage. The relics, he said on X, were coming home after 127 years.