Early-century Lord Ganesha, Buddha statues: Images of stolen antiquities US handed over to India during PM Modi's visit

During Prime Minister Modi's US visit, President Biden facilitated the return of 297 stolen antiquities to India, spanning 4000 years (2000 BCE – 1900 CE). These artifacts, including terracotta, bronze, and stone pieces from various regions, were symbolically handed over. PM Modi briefed President Biden about their deep cultural significance to India's heritage. (Picture credit: Ministry of external affairs)

This sandstone sculpture of an Apsara from the 10-11th century CE, hailing from Central India, features a female figure in the graceful tribhanga posture. Adorned with intricate jewellery, including crown-like headgear and long circular earrings, the piece is notable for its detailed craftsmanship and serene expression. (Picture credit: Ministry of external affairs)

A bronze sculpture of a Jain Tirthankara, meditating on a high pedestal, is one of the notable artifacts from Central India. The figure is accompanied by deities and supported by lion and elephant motifs, showcasing religious devotion from the 15th to 16th century CE. (Picture credit: Ministry of external affairs)

This broken terracotta vase from Eastern India dates back to the 3-4th century CE. The vase is intricately decorated with scenes of elephants, a female riding a crocodile, and aquatic animals, symbolising ancient Indian artistry in pottery. (Picture credit: Ministry of external affairs)

A limestone sculpture from South India, depicting a standing male figure in a turban, accompanied by two females and an elephant rider, dates back to the 1st century BCE – 1st century CE. The lower section contains a wheel and a horse's head, adding to its historical significance. (Picture credit: Ministry of external affairs)

A four-armed bronze statue of Lord Ganesha from South India, crafted between the 17th and 18th century CE, displays the deity holding a parasu, pasa, tusk, and modak. This artifact is a fine example of South Indian bronze craftsmanship. (Picture credit: Ministry of external affairs)

A sandstone sculpture of a standing Buddha, draped in a flowing robe and performing the abhaya mudra, hails from North India in the 15-16th century CE. The serene figure is an emblem of peace and spiritual wisdom. (Picture credit: Ministry of external affairs)

A bronze statue of Lord Vishnu from Eastern India, dating back to the 17-18th century CE, features the deity with four arms, standing on a lotus pedestal, accompanied by attendants. This piece is a testament to the religious and artistic heritage of the region. (Picture credit: Ministry of external affairs)

This copper figure, representing a stylised anthropomorphic figure with folded hands, comes from North India and dates back to 2000-1800 BCE. The large-sized figure is one of the oldest artifacts in the collection, reflecting early Indian craftsmanship. (Picture credit: Ministry of external affairs)

A bronze statue of Lord Krishna from South India, dating to the 17-18th century CE, depicts the deity in a tribhanga posture, playing the flute (although the flute is missing). The high pedestal and intricate details highlight the skill of the artisans from the period. (Picture credit: Ministry of external affairs)

This granite sculpture from Tamil Nadu, South India, features Lord Karthikeya in a youthful form, standing with his mount, the peacock. Dated to the 13-14th century CE, the statue exhibits exquisite detail in depicting Karthikeya's attire and his weapons. (Picture credit: Ministry of external affairs)