Customs Hands Over 101 Seized Antiquities Including Mughal Era Khanjars To ASI

The Customs Department handed over 101 antiquities, including five mediaeval-era Khanjars and a British-era knife, to the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) on Thursday. Custom officers seized these antiquities in 2003 and 2004 from syndicates involved in the illegal import and export of artefacts.

The five Khanjars which are part of the 101 antiquities date back to the mediaeval period and feature intricate Meenakari and Koftgiri designs on their hilts and covers. One of the Khanjars has a rare black-coloured semi-precious stone hilt. Meanwhile, the knife, imported from Japan in 2004, dates back to the British era and showcases the exquisite craftsmanship of that time.

Out of the 101 antiquities, some will be displayed at 'Dharohar'--the National Museum of Customs & CGST at Goa. The rest will be under the display and specialised care of the ASI, which is the custodian of India's rich cultural heritage.

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Union Minister Nirmala Sitharaman virtually presided over the handing-over ceremony, which was held at seven different locations across the country. The handing-over ceremony was held at seven different locations in Bengaluru, Bhopal, Bhubaneshwar, Delhi, Guwahati, Mumbai and Pune.

While handing over customs-seized antiquities to the ASI, the minister praised the Customs Department for its alert action and Prime Minister Narendra Modi for his efforts to bring back stolen artefacts and antiquities from various countries.

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For years, the Indian Customs and the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) have been working together to protect and conserve our antiquities, whether they are literary works, artefacts, idols, paintings, coins etc. 

(With ANI Inputs)