Guwahati: Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma arrived in London on Sunday to advance negotiations for the return of the centuries-old ‘Brindabani Bastra’, a prized relic of the Neo-Vaishnavite tradition and one of the most significant cultural artefacts linked to Srimanta Sankardeva.
The 16th-century textile, created under the guidance of Mahapurush Srimanta Sankardeva and his disciple Madhabdeva, is renowned for its intricate woven depictions of Lord Krishna’s childhood.
Celebrated as a masterpiece of devotional art and medieval Assamese craftsmanship, portions of the Bastra were removed from Assam during the British era and are now held in museums across London and Paris.
Officials accompanying the chief minister said preliminary talks with UK authorities have already taken place, laying out a broad plan to transport the artefact back to Guwahati.
The state government has earmarked land for a new, purpose-built museum where the Bastra will be permanently showcased with modern preservation systems.
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A key outcome anticipated during Sarma’s visit is the signing of an MoU between the Assam government and the London museum holding the textile.
The agreement, expected to be finalised later today, will define the terms of transfer, conservation requirements and exhibition protocols.
A senior official described the potential return of the Brindabani Bastra as a “major cultural milestone” that will amplify global awareness of Sankardeva’s legacy and the influence of the Neo-Vaishnavite movement.
Assam is also exploring future collaborations regarding other fragments of the Bastra currently housed in Europe.
