GUWAHATI, Nov 17: Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma has announced that a historic Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) will be signed on Monday in London with the British Museum to facilitate the return of the sacred Vrindavani Vastra to Assam on a loan basis. Calling it a moment of “immense cultural significance,” the Chief Minister said the development marks a major milestone in the state’s efforts to reclaim priceless heritage linked to the 16th-century Vaishnavite reformer Srimanta Sankardeva.

“Tomorrow is a big day for Assam & Bharat… We are signing an MoU with the British Museum so that the sacred Vrindavani Vastra can be brought back home,” Sarma wrote on X, adding that the initiative reflects the government’s dual focus on “Vikas & Virasat.”

Sarma, currently on a high-level visit to London, is finalising the terms for the temporary return of the revered textile, which is expected to be exhibited in Assam in 2027. He also shared interactions with the Indian diaspora and noted that the visit included studying London’s waterfront development, insights he hopes to apply to transforming Guwahati’s riverfront.

Before departing for the UK, the Chief Minister released a video message highlighting preparations underway for the arrival of the Vrindavani Vastra. The government has already allotted land in Guwahati’s Khanapara to build a specialised museum equipped to preserve the centuries-old artefact under strict climate-controlled conditions.

Created under the guidance of Srimanta Sankardeva, the Vrindavani Vastra is regarded as one of Assam’s most treasured cultural symbols. Its temporary return is expected to boost public pride and strengthen efforts to reconnect the state with historically displaced heritage. The signing of the MoU is anticipated to open a new chapter in India’s pursuit of restoring access to significant cultural artefacts housed overseas.