The Repatriation: An Enigma of Anthropological Collections in Indian Scenario

Authors: Banita B* and Gangadhar MR

DOI: 10.23880/aeoaj-16000155

Volume 4, Issue 2

Abstract

Repatriation is the process of returning cultural property backs the country, community, family, or individual from which it was first acquired. Illegal or unethical means may have been used to seize some cultural property from its original owners. Many First Nations people were treated unfairly in the past, and repatriation of cultural property is a crucial component of recognising and healing these injustices. It is an emotional issue for First Nations people in Canada and Indigenous peoples around the world when it comes to repatriating cultural property. Politically and legally, repatriation must be viewed as part of Indigenous peoples’ historical and on going experiences with colonisation, as well as its ramifications. There was a time when many museums were actively involved in the collection and categorization of indigenous cultural property and knowledge, frequently without the active participation of indigenous people. Objects of this nature have been displayed in museums for many years, but their usage and meaning have been misinterpreted or misrepresented. Museums began partnering with First Nations on exhibits, education programmes and cultural property repatriation in recent years. Repatriation of artefacts from museums throughout the world has become a priority for many indigenous families and communities in recent years. Recognizing the complexity of the situation requires understanding that cultural property may have been either taken or appropriated. It may have been stolen or sold. The return of cultural property that has been unlawfully removed to its original communities is a vital task. Repatriation and reconciliation require acknowledging the historical events that resulted in First Nations losing their cultural property and addressing these challenges. It’s a way to acknowledge the history and future of indigenous peoples. Many museums in United States requests nowadays the repatriation of human remains and in other circumstances, it is up to the museum’s governing body to make a judgement which is more matter of concern. A brief historical examination of the colonial period’s repatriation is presented in this paper, with a special focus on the Indian situation and anthropological artefacts.

Keywords: Repatriation; Cultural Policy; Indigenous; Objects; Museums

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