A renewed call for the return of the historic Koh-i-Noor diamond has brought global attention back to the issue of colonial-era treasures.
According to Beyond Time News, New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani encouraged King Charles III to return the Koh-i-Noor diamond to India during the monarch’s recent visit to the United States.
Speaking at a press conference ahead of a ceremony honoring victims of the September 11 attacks, Mamdani said he would raise the issue if given a private moment with the king. He stressed the cultural and historical value of the diamond, especially for people of Indian origin.
Later that day, Mamdani briefly met King Charles at the memorial event in New York. It is not clear whether the topic came up during their interaction. Buckingham Palace declined to comment, and Mamdani’s office has not shared further details.
The Koh-i-Noor diamond, weighing 105 carats, has long been at the center of debate. India has repeatedly called for its return, describing it as a key part of its cultural heritage.
King Charles and Queen Camilla at Grand White House
The diamond’s history dates back to the 19th century, when it was handed over to Queen Victoria in 1850. This followed the annexation of Punjab by the East India Company in 1849. The transfer remains controversial and continues to shape discussions today.
During his visit, King Charles also paid tribute to the victims of 9/11 by laying flowers at the memorial built on the site of the former World Trade Center. The ceremony honored those who lost their lives in the tragic attacks.
For many, the Koh-i-Noor is more than a diamond. It is seen as a symbol of colonial history and its lasting impact. Since gaining independence in 1947, India has continued to press for its return.
Over the centuries, the diamond has passed through several rulers, including Mughal emperors, Persian leaders, Afghan emirs, and Sikh maharajas. Today, it remains one of the world’s most discussed and symbolic historical treasures.
