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Chennai News

The Times of India

Chennai / The Times of India

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India 'Lends Back' Stolen Nataraja to Smithsonian: Is that legally correct?

India celebrates the return of stolen idols, but a deal with the Smithsonian to lend back the Thiruthuraipoondi Nataraja raises questions. The article argues that a consecrated deity is not state property and cannot be legally lent by the government. This arrangement risks undermining the principle of true restitution for devotees.

13 May 2026 11:03 pm