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A funny question asked by a British tourist at the National Museum of India has sparked serious discussions about missing Indian artefacts.
His friend quickly replied that the artifacts were in London. (Image source: Instagram)
A light-hearted British man’s comment at the National Indian Museum caught everyone’s attention. It has also revived conversations about India’s colonial past and the loss of its precious antiquities to other countries.
The traveler, named Alex, recently visited the museum in New Delhi with a friend named Amina. Walking through the quiet halls, Alex asked, “Amina, do you know why there are almost no artifacts in the National Museum of India?” “I think it’s because they’re all in London,” Amina replied without missing a beat. Alex nodded and said, “Oh, yeah, I remember,” and ended the short clip with a knowing smile.
The video, titled “Why are museums in India empty,” received more than five thousand views online and sparked a wave of mixed reactions from viewers.
Check out the clip here:
The Internet is divided over the colonial past
After the video went viral, social media users shared their thoughts, some amusing and others pensive. Many pointed out that British museums still display artefacts taken from India during the colonial era.
“The British stole everything,” one user wrote, while another commented: “London has more Indian stuff than India.”
“This is very true, the same applies to Greek artifacts and much more,” one person added, linking the matter to other countries whose treasures have been stolen.
Some people found humor in the situation. “They took everything, haha,” one person said. Another wrote: “This is why I feel at home when I go to museums in London.” Others expressed their frustration, saying it was “sad but true.”
Treasures that were never returned
India’s long-standing demand for the return of its cultural treasures remains unresolved. One of the most famous examples is the Koh-i-Noor diamond, which is now part of the British Crown Jewels. The 105-carat jewel was owned by Indian rulers before it was seized by the East India Company and later presented to Queen Victoria.
Other items include the Amravati Marbles, Tipu Sultan’s personal belongings and countless sculptures, coins and manuscripts on display in British museums.
Experts reportedly estimate that thousands of Indian artefacts remain in the UK, many of which were acquired during the 18th and 19th centuries.
The team of writers at News18.com bring you stories about what’s buzzing on the internet while exploring science, cricket, technology, sex, Bollywood and culture.
Delhi, India, India
27 October 2025 at 6:59 PM IST
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