The recent news of Rajasthan police retrieving the Natesa, a rare 9th century sandstone idol (Pratihara Style of Rajasthan), after 22 years has drawn considerable attention. The Natesa icon, originally from the Ghateswar Temple, Baroli, Rajasthan, was smuggled out of the country in 1998. The India Pride Project, a group of archaeologists using social media to identify and return stolen religious artefacts from Indian temples, played a significant role in this achievement.
The Natesa Icon: A Description
The Natesa icon is currently housed at the Indian High Commission in London. Standing tall at almost 4 ft, it is a notable specimen of the Pratihara style of Rajasthan. It features a rare and brilliant depiction of Shiva, with a beautifully depicted Nandi shown behind the right leg of the icon.
India Pride Project: Art Enthusiasts on a Mission
The India Pride Project, a group of art enthusiasts who use social media to track and secure the return of stolen religious artefacts from Indian temples, has consistently worked towards the restitution of the Natesa icon, among others. Their relentless efforts have aided considerably in the retrieval of this invaluable piece.
The Archaeological Significance
The Natesa’s return is a significant triumph for the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) and the Ministry of Culture. The event should serve as an impetus for these institutions to pursue the recovery of thousands of artefacts believed to have been stolen since the 1960s.
Pratihara Style: A glimpse into Temple Architecture
The Pratihara Style is renowned for its temple architecture, attributed to the Gurjara-Pratihara dynasty of Rajasthan. They held sway over much of Northern India from the mid-8th to the 11th century. Notable rulers of this period included Nagabhata II, Mhir Bhoj, and Mahenedra Pal I.
Key Characteristics of Pratihara Style
The architecture is celebrated for its intricate sculptures, carved panels, and open pavilion style temples belonging to Nagara Style of temple Architecture. Most commonly, the Pratiharas used sandstone for idols, often in various shades of red resulting from iron oxide (rust). The zenith of their architectural style can be seen at Khajuraho, Madhya Pradesh, which is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
