Assam’s Heritage Homecoming : London MoU for Vrindavani Vastra

Friends of India Society International (FISI), UK is delighted to highlight a landmark moment in cultural diplomacy and heritage conservation. On 17 November 2025, Assam Chief Minister Dr. Himanta Biswa Sarma signed a historic Memorandum of Understanding with the British Museum, marking the formal agreement for the return on loan of the Vrindavani Vastra, a priceless 16th-century Assamese textile masterpiece.

Significance of the Vrindavani Vastra

The Vrindavani Vastra (or Brindabani Bastra in Assamese) is a rare and intricately woven silk drape, created under the guidance of Srimanta Sankardev, the revered saint-scholar and central figure of the Assamese Vaishnavite tradition.

Its richly detailed panels depict scenes from Lord Krishna’s childhood (‘’Krishna-lila’’) and dasavatara (the ten avatars of Vishnu), combining devotion, spirituality and masterful craftsmanship. Historically, parts of the Vastra ended up in museums abroad. The British Museum holds some of these precious fragments.

Details of the London MoU

Under the newly signed MoU, the British Museum will loan the Vastra to Assam for public display beginning in 2027, for a period of approximately 18 months. To meet the conservation and environmental standards required by the British Museum, the Assam government has allocated land (in Guwahati, Khanapara) for a new museum. The JSW Group, through its CSR initiative, has committed to constructing this state-of-the-art facility to ensure the Vastra is preserved and showcased in optimal conditions. By bringing this piece home, Assam highlights its artistic heritage and reconnects citizens with a major symbol of spiritual and cultural identity. CM Dr. Sarma said, ‘We are bringing this historic treasure back to Assam, where it truly belongs’. Alongside the physical exhibit, the British Museum will help create a high-quality digital version of the Vastra. This digital rendition is planned for exhibition as early as February 2026 (at Srimanta Shankardeva Kalakshetra) and will be made available online.

A New Chapter in India–UK Cultural Collaboration

This MoU represents a progressive model of cooperation between global museums and national governments. It strengthens India–UK cultural ties while setting a responsible precedent for heritage loans rooted in trust, conservation standards, and mutual respect.

Conclusion

This MoU is more than a symbolic return—it is a decisive move to reclaim Assamese heritage and share it responsibly with future generations.

For FISI UK, it marks a proud milestone, strengthening our commitment to cultural exchange and India’s civilisational legacy.