UK and India to Share Kohinoor? Lisa Nandy Hints Shift in Artefact Talks

UK and India are about to open a new cultural chapter. British Secretary of State Lisa Nandy announced that the two nations are in negotiations regarding joint access to historic artefacts, such as the Kohinoor diamond.

Her visit to New Delhi is for the signing of a cultural cooperation agreement, marking a deeper engagement in creative sectors and heritage cooperation. The move has the potential to redefine colonial narratives and facilitate joint heritage in museums and exhibitions.

Lisa Nandy Confirms Talks on Artefact Access

Lisa Nandy, Britain’s new Culture Secretary, confirmed that London and New Delhi have been having regular discussions regarding access to important cultural artefacts. These include the 105.6 carat Kohinoor diamond—one of the largest cut diamonds in the world and an enduring symbol of British colonial looting.

Referring to ANI while in India, she noted the objective as mutual gain and greater public availability. “We’ve been in discussions between India and the UK for a pretty long time now. so the people of the UK and of India can take advantage of these cultural objects,” Nandy mentioned.

Colonial Past, Shared Future

The Kohinoor’s traumatic path—from Indian emperors to Queen Victoria through the East India Company—remains a cause of nationalistic passion in India. In contemplating mutual exhibitions and co-productions, the UK is now being more gentle, inclusive in its approach. Nandy attested that this partnership was symbolic, as well as strategic.

She emphasized, “This is something that I’ve talked to my counterpart,” i.e., Indian authorities with whom she signed the agreement.

New Cultural Agreement Signed

While on a visit, Nandy also inked a new cultural cooperation accord. The agreement guarantees collaboration among British and Indian museums, as well as creative industries such as film, music, video games, and television. She referenced joint collaborations between the UK’s Science Museums Group and Indian partners as an inspiration for what to come.

“Through collaboration, we can achieve more,” she said. “Co-branded exhibitions, touring objects—this is how both countries gain.

India’s Creative Industries Get a Global Boost

Nandy complimented Prime Minister Narendra Modi on his attention to India’s creative industries. She seconded UK PM Keir Starmer’s endorsement of this vision. “We sell these products abroad. But with India, we can do better,” she went on to add.

The UK is hoping this cultural synergy would serve as a “rocket booster” for cross-growth in film, fashion, and innovation.

Strong Political Support and Shared Values

Nandy also had a meeting with India’s External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar during her visit. She termed their bilateral meeting as warm and productive, with a common commitment to cultural, political, and security relations.

She also expressed condolences regarding the Pahalgam terror attack. “The UK stands with India against terrorism, always in whatever form,” she said. “When you’re hurting, we’re hurting.”

This visit and agreement is a significant policy change—from strict artefact ownership to co-management. If put into action, this would be a global precedent. Rather than constant repatriation battles, nations might co-manage contested heritage, expanding access to the public and fostering historical healing.”.