Daijiworld Media Network - New York

New York, May 3: New York Mayor Zohran Mamdani stirred a sensitive international debate ahead of his meeting with King Charles III by suggesting the return of the controversial Koh-i-Noor diamond.

Speaking at a press interaction on Wednesday before visiting the 9/11 memorial, Mamdani said the occasion should primarily honour victims of the terror attacks. However, he added that in a separate conversation, he would “encourage” the British monarch to return the Koh-i-Noor.

The diamond, whose name translates to “Mountain of Light,” is believed to have been mined in South India between the 13th century and earlier periods, though its exact origin remains debated. Originally weighing around 186 carats, the gem has a long and contested history of ownership.

Many historians argue the diamond was acquired by the British Empire under controversial circumstances during colonial rule, particularly after the Treaty of Lahore, when it was ceded by the young Sikh ruler Duleep Singh to Queen Victoria following the annexation of Punjab.

Today, the Koh-i-Noor is part of the British Crown Jewels and is set in the crown of the Queen Mother. Over the centuries, the diamond passed through several rulers, including Mughal emperor Shah Jahan, Persian ruler Nader Shah, and Sikh leader Ranjit Singh, reflecting a turbulent legacy tied to conquest and empire.

Mamdani did not specify where the diamond should be returned, noting that multiple countries including India, Iran, Afghanistan and Pakistan have laid claim to it. His remarks come amid renewed global conversations about repatriation of artefacts acquired during colonial rule.

Buckingham Palace declined to comment on Mamdani’s statement.

The mayor briefly interacted with King Charles III at the 9/11 memorial, where the two were seen exchanging greetings. The nature of their conversation, however, remains unclear.

The issue of returning the Koh-i-Noor has gained traction in recent years, especially following the death of Queen Elizabeth II, with growing public sentiment viewing the gem as a symbol of colonial-era appropriation.

Experts note that while calls for repatriation are increasing, determining rightful ownership remains complex due to shifting borders, historical conflicts, and multiple claimants over centuries.