Particle.news
Download on the App Store
8 ARTICLES
·
8h ago

British Museum Backs Conditional 2027 Loan of Vrindavani Vastra to Assam

The loan hinges on Assam delivering a new conservation‑grade museum in Guwahati and on India providing a sovereign guarantee for the artefact’s return.

The Brindavani Bastra is a 9.37-metre-long and 2.31-metre-wide textile made with silk, cotton, and brass thread. (The British Museum)
Image
Image

Overview

  • The 16th‑century textile will be loaned for 18 months in 2027 if environmental and security standards are met at a purpose‑built facility.
  • JSW Group will construct the museum in Guwahati as a CSR gift on state‑allotted land, with Assam prepared to co‑fund if costs exceed the budget.
  • The British Museum requires a sovereign guarantee from the Government of India; the chief minister has written to the external affairs minister and plans further engagement in London this year.
  • An interim digital exhibition is scheduled for February 2026 at SankardeSankardeva Kalakshetra, with a high‑quality online representation to broaden access.
  • The British Museum will share design and conservation guidance and is preparing an updated Richard Blurton volume on the Vastra with Hindi and Assamese translations; a related loan to Mumbai is also being explored for 2027.