What are the Chola plates? Netherlands returns 1,000-year-old Indian heritage to PM Modi

The Indian government has received 21 large and 3 small Chola copper plates from the Netherlands. These ancient artefacts date back to the 11th century and contain texts written in Tamil. The plates were taken to the Netherlands in the 1700s and have been housed at Leiden University since the mid-19th century. They relate to the formalising of an oral commitment made by King Rajaraja I, the father of Rajendra Chola I. The plates showcase the greatness of the Cholas and India is proud of their culture and maritime prowess.