Mayor Advocates for Koh-i-Noor Diamond’s Return to India

During a recent 9/11 memorial event in New York City, Mayor Zoran Mamdani expressed his desire to discuss the Koh-i-Noor diamond with King Charles if given the opportunity. He stated that he would recommend the British monarch consider returning the diamond to India, a topic that has stirred considerable debate.

Mamdani made these comments while responding to reporters’ questions about what he would say to King Charles if they had a chance to chat, particularly during the wreath-laying ceremony at Ground Zero, which marked the 25th anniversary of the September 11 attacks.

“If I could speak with the king, I would probably suggest that the Koh-i-Noor diamond be returned,” he mentioned, while also acknowledging that his primary focus was on the evening’s commemorative activities.

This 105.6-carat diamond, now set in the crown of the late Queen Mother, has a complex and checkered history. Once considered one of the most valuable gems in the world, the Koh-i-Noor, which translates to “Mountain of Light,” is believed to have originated in southern India during the 13th century, changing hands numerous times through the centuries.

Originally becoming British property in 1849, the diamond was acquired after the British annexed Punjab, forcing a 10-year-old king to sign the Treaty of Lahore, ceding sovereignty and the gem to Britain.

The Koh-i-Noor has been part of the British Crown Jewels and has been worn by several queens, being prominently featured in the crown worn by Queen Elizabeth, the wife of King George VI. Currently, the jewels, including the Koh-i-Noor, are on display at the Tower of London.

India is one of several nations seeking the return of the diamond; countries such as Pakistan, Iran, and Afghanistan have also made claims to this famous jewel. However, as of now, neither the British government nor the royal family has indicated any plans to return the Koh-i-Noor diamond.