The controversial auction of the Piprahwa gems—believed to be linked to the remains of Gautama Buddha—was postponed after strong opposition from the Indian government. Sotheby’s, which scheduled the auction in Hong Kong for early May 2025, estimated the collection's value at nearly HK$100 million (approximately ₹106 crore). These 334 gemstones, mostly rubies, diamonds, and gold artifacts, were excavated in 1898 by British colonial engineer William Claxton Peppé in what is now Uttar Pradesh, India. Experts believe these relics were interred with Buddha’s ashes between 240–200 BCE by the Shakya clan.
Although a significant portion of the collection was handed to the British Museum, Peppé's family retained several items, some of which surfaced in this auction. India’s Ministry of Culture intervened, arguing that the items were “sacred cultural property” under national and international heritage protection laws. Legal experts highlighted that the Antiquities and Art Treasures Act of 1972 and the UNESCO Convention of 1970 could be applicable, which prohibit the commercial trade of culturally significant relics.
Global Buddhist communities condemned the sale, calling it a sacrilegious act. Public campaigns, petitions, and formal diplomatic protests from India prompted Sotheby’s to halt the auction, citing “the need for further dialogue.” India is reportedly exploring diplomatic channels and legal avenues to repatriate the relics.
This incident underscores the ongoing debate about colonial-era acquisitions and the ethics of art sales involving sacred artifacts. It has also reignited calls for the repatriation of Indian cultural treasures housed abroad.
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