Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma has announced a major cultural milestone as the state prepares to sign a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the British Museum to bring the sacred Vrindavani Vastra back to Assam under a loaning arrangement.
Describing the 16th-century textile as a “timeless masterpiece” woven with devotion by Mahapurush Srimanta Sankardev, the Chief Minister said the artefact reflects the essence of Assam’s Vaishnavite culture through its divine and intricate craftsmanship. “Our Government has begun the process to bring this historic treasure back to Assam, where it truly belongs,” Sarma said.
In a post on X, he wrote, “Tomorrow is a big day for Assam and Bharat. We are signing an MoU with the British Museum so that the sacred Vrindavani Vastra can be brought back home under a loaning arrangement. Vikas and Virasat continue to be pillars of our governance agenda.”
Sharing updates from his ongoing visit to the United Kingdom, Sarma said he spent his first day in London exploring the waterfront. He added that Assam is working to transform the Guwahati riverfront by adopting global best practices. The Chief Minister also interacted with members of the Indian diaspora, lauding their contributions abroad.
The move marks a crucial step in Assam’s long-standing efforts to bring home the revered Vrindavani Vastra, a creation attributed to 15th-century saint and reformer Srimanta Sankardev. Sarma had earlier highlighted progress in this mission in August, reiterating the government’s commitment to preserving Assam’s rich cultural heritage.
He further announced that the agreement with the British Museum will outline guidelines for the Vastra’s exhibition in Assam in 2027. Meanwhile, JSW Group will bear the cost of constructing a dedicated museum in Guwahati to host the exhibition.
