India Moves to Halt Auction of Sacred Jewels Linked to Buddha's Remains

India's Ministry of Culture is demanding the return of jewels linked to the remains of Buddha, auctioned by Sotheby's, asserting they violate international laws.

The Indian government is stepping up to halt the auction of sacred jewels that are tied to the remains of Buddha, currently scheduled at Sotheby's in Hong Kong. The jewels are associated with relics dated back over a century, unearthed from a stupa in Piprahwa, believed to be near Buddha's birthplace in Lumbini, Nepal.

In an assertive stance, India's Ministry of Culture has threatened legal action against Sotheby’s unless the auction is called off. The ministry has described the sale of these jewels as a violation of both Indian and international laws, along with various UN conventions. It formally requested their return, emphasizing that the gems should be regarded not merely as artifacts but as sacred offerings connected to Buddha.

The relics were discovered by William Claxton Peppé in 1898, who subsequently handed them to the colonial Indian government. The findings included nearly 1,800 gems, such as rubies and sapphires, stored within a brick chamber. The Indian ministry has publicly condemned the impending sale, asserting that it constitutes a continued colonial exploitation. This ethical dilemma has sparked outrage among Buddhists and art scholars worldwide.

In a response to the cultural ministry, Sotheby’s confirmed they are addressing the legal notice and reassured that the matter is under their scrutiny. The ministry, however, alleges that Chris Peppé, the great-grandson of William Peppé, does not possess the legal authority to sell the jewels and called into question the custodianship of the items.

The ministry further stated that referring to the jewels as "duplicates" is misleading, as these relics form an "inalienable cultural heritage" of India. They argue these jewels cannot be reduced to mere specimens owing to their religious significance.

Critics have highlighted the mismanagement of the relics, pointing towards past reports indicating they were stored in unfavorable conditions. The Indian government has demanded a public apology from both Sotheby's and Peppé, along with full disclosure of all ownership records pertaining to the jewels.

Failing compliance may lead to legal repercussions in both India and Hong Kong for "violation of cultural heritage law." The Ministry also hinted at launching a campaign to raise public awareness about Sotheby's contributions to "colonial injustice".

Chris Peppé, while asserting his family’s intent to honor the relics, indicated that their exploration of donation options had encountered obstacles, leading them to consider auctioning as the most equitable means of transferring ownership. The jewels have gained international attention, having been featured in major exhibitions including one at The Met in 2023.

As this story unfolds, followers of Buddhism, art historians and the Indian government await a resolution that would respect the sacred heritage embodied by these remarkable artifacts.