After 100 years, Canada to return ancient Maa Annapurna idol stolen from Varanasi

Mumbai, November 30: Sharing the good news on the occasion of Dev Deepawali, Prime Minister Narendra Modi Canada will be returning a very ancient idol of Devi Annapurna the idol was stolen from a temple of Varanasi and smuggled out of the country about 100 years ago somewhere around 1913.

 

During speaking in his monthly radio program ‘Mann Ki Baat’ in the 71st edition of the programme, he said, "every Indian would feel proud to know that an ancient idol of Devi Annapurna is being brought back from Canada to India. Almost 100 years ago in 1913, this idol was stolen from a temple in Varanasi and smuggled out of the country."

 

 

Explaining the connection of Goddess Annapurna with Varanasi, the prime minister said, “Mata Annapurna has a very special bond with Kashi. And the return of the idol is very pleasant for all of us. Like the statue of Mata Annapurna, much of our heritage has been a victim of international gangs.”

 

 

 

PM Modi also added, “Just like the idol of Mata Annapurna, a lot of our invaluable heritage has suffered at the hands of international gangs. These gangs sell them at a very high price in the international market”.

 

The temple from where the idol was stolen was constructed in the 18th century by Peshwa Bajirao. Annapurna is the Hindu Goddess for food nourishment. Presently, the idol is part of the University of Regina's collection at the MacKenzie Art Gallery.