The recent coronation of King Charles III was a spectacle of royal grandeur, but one notable gem was absent: the 105-carat Kohinoor Diamond. This legendary stone, once the centerpiece of the Queen Mother’s crown, has been a source of contention between Britain and India for over a century, symbolizing the complex legacy of the British Empire.
The Kohinoor’s origins can be traced back to Delhi, where it adorned the Peacock Throne of the Mughal Empire. Passed down through generations, the diamond’s history is shrouded in tales of both magnificence and misfortune. Some believe the stone carries a curse, bringing ill fate to its possessor.
Buckingham Palace’s decision to omit the Kohinoor from Queen Camilla’s coronation crown was a strategic move, sidestepping growing pressure from India for its return. This decision highlights the diamond’s significance as a focal point for demands of colonial restitution.
The Kohinoor diamond displayed prominently on the crown
The Kohinoor’s journey to Britain began in 1849 following the Sikh Empire’s fall to British rule. A treaty signed by the young Maharaja Duleep Singh, under duress, transferred the diamond to Queen Victoria.
While this agreement forms the basis of Britain’s claim, many argue it was a forced concession, not a legitimate transfer of ownership. The debate extends beyond India, with Pakistan, Afghanistan, and descendants of the Sikh Empire also staking claims to the diamond.
Despite calls for its return, the Kohinoor remains a prized possession of the British Crown Jewels, displayed alongside other historical artifacts in the Tower of London.
The diamond’s presence in the exhibit, “The Crown Jewels,” offers the public a glimpse into its splendor and historical significance. However, it also serves as a stark reminder of the unresolved issues surrounding colonial acquisitions and the ongoing debate over cultural heritage.
The Kohinoor’s future remains uncertain. While its physical location remains unchanged, the intensifying calls for its repatriation reflect a broader global shift towards acknowledging and addressing the injustices of colonialism.
