Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma on Sunday met members of the Indian diaspora and the Assamese community in London, highlighting Assam’s rich cultural heritage and its growing global presence.

Sarma is visiting the United Kingdom to facilitate the return of the sacred Vrindavani Vastra, a 16th-century textile masterpiece created by Mahapurush Srimanta Sankardev, currently housed in the British Museum. During his first day in London, the Chief Minister also visited the city’s waterfront and noted that Guwahati’s riverfront development would incorporate global best practices.

He announced that a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the British Museum will be signed to bring the Vrindavani Vastra back to Assam under a loan agreement. Calling the textile a “timeless masterpiece,” Sarma said it reflects the devotion and creativity of Srimanta Sankardev and serves as a living expression of Vaishnava culture. He added, “Our government has begun the process to bring this historic treasure back to Assam, where it truly belongs. Vikas and Virasat continue to be the pillars of our governance.”

In August, Sarma had announced progress in efforts to return the sacred textile. The British Museum has agreed to loan the Vrindavani Vastra for 18 months in 2027. The Assam government has allotted land for a dedicated museum, which will be constructed under the CSR initiative of JSW Group. British Museum Director Dr Nicholas Cullinan OBE had earlier assured the Assam government of the museum’s support for the initiative, emphasizing its commitment to preserving Assamese textile traditions.