British Indian-origin minister Lisa Nandy highlights potential collaboration with India on cultural artefacts and exhibitions
In a significant diplomatic overture, UK’s Culture Secretary Lisa Nandy, during her visit to India, indicated a potential willingness to share iconic artefacts like the Kohinoor diamond with India. She emphasized the need for both countries to collaborate on touring exhibitions, cultural exchanges, and shared access to historical objects, enabling people in both nations to benefit from their collective heritage, reported gujaratsamachar.com.
Nandy calls for cultural cooperation, expresses solidarity with India over Pahalgam terror attack.
Addressing delegates at the WAVES Summit 2025, Nandy spoke emotionally about her personal ties to India, mentioning her Indian heritage and family roots in Kolkata. “The relationship between India and the UK is strong and deep—and it is personal for me,” she said, proudly referencing her role as the first Labour cabinet minister of Indian descent in the UK.
Nandy condemned the April 22 terrorist attack in Pahalgam, Jammu & Kashmir, offering condolences to the bereaved families and reaffirming the UK’s support for India in its fight against terrorism
India and UK eye deeper ties in cultural, creative sectors
During her visit, Nandy held a bilateral meeting with India’s External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar, where both leaders explored avenues for enhanced cooperation in cultural diplomacy and other creative industries. Posting about the meeting on X (formerly Twitter), she noted the mutual intent to work more closely together.
Nandy’s remarks on sharing artefacts like the Kohinoor indicate a growing willingness in the UK to engage in dialogue on colonial-era treasures — a subject that has long been a point of contention in India-UK relations.
