People across India voice strong support for New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani’s pledge to urge King Charles to return the iconic Koh-i-Noor diamond. This 105.6-carat gem, seized during British colonial rule, now adorns the British crown jewels and symbolizes exploitation for many in South Asia.
Koh-i-Noor Diamond’s Contested Past
The diamond came from present-day Pakistan and reached Queen Victoria in 1849 via the Treaty of Lahore. India repeatedly demands its repatriation, alongside claims from Pakistan, Iran, and Afghanistan. The jewel sparked debate during the third day of King Charles and Queen Camilla’s U.S. state visit.
Meeting at 9/11 Memorial
King Charles met Mayor Mamdani at a New York commemorative service for the 9/11 attacks, which claimed 3,000 lives. At a press conference, Mamdani addressed a reporter’s question on his message to the King beyond honoring victims: “If I was to speak to the King, separately from that, I would probably encourage him to return the Koh-i-Noor diamond.”
Mamdani’s office and Buckingham Palace offer no confirmation on whether he raised the topic privately. The Indian government has not issued an official response.
Enthusiastic Online Praise
Social media erupts with acclaim from Indian users. X user Ratnesh Paliya posted: “Bro quotes Nehru in victory speeches, plays Bollywood songs, and now wants the Kohinoor returned. At this point, he sounds more Indian than half of Indian Twitter.”
Another user remarked: “LOL you can’t deny that Mamdani grew up very much in touch with his desi roots. My kids would have zero idea what the Koh-i-noor was or any knowledge of British colonial rule in India.”
Supporters highlight his heritage: “Become First Indian origin African born Mayor of NYC. Immediately asks for colonial loot to be returned to its rightful owners. Very based.” One added: “not a fan but at least he has the guts to call out [the] King of England [for] their robbery from India.”
Some note Mamdani omitted specifying a recipient amid rival claims: “Return to whom? Many countries claim it.”
Criticism and Pushback
Not all approve. X user Zeba Zoariah cautioned: “Koh-i-noor for us is a reminder of how power moved and wealth was taken. Urging the Crown in a New York room may sound bold for your crowd, but we get your act. Stop speaking on behalf of us. We’ve lived this history we can tell when it’s being performed.”
Royal expert Amanda Foreman explains: “The King has no more power to return the diamond than he has to return Buckingham Palace to the people.”
Republican strategist O’Brien Murray labels it a “terrible idea, terrible idea,” urging focus on New York priorities over foreign policy.
Democratic operative Ken Frydman, former NYC Mayor Rudy Giuliani’s spokesperson, states: “The sitting mayor of New York City shouldn’t give us a history lesson while politicising the visit of the sitting King of England. He should’ve enthusiastically welcomed him, not reluctantly. We know the history. No one has forgotten colonialism.”
Antiquities Repatriation Update
Separately, Manhattan District Attorney’s office returns 657 antiquities worth nearly $14 million to India. Linked to smugglers like Subhash Kapoor, who denies involvement, these artifacts emerged from probes into global cultural theft networks.
