The Koh-i-Noor Diamond of India – The Cursed Jewel
The Koh-i-Noor Diamond is one of the most famous and controversial gemstones in history. With its origins tracing back to ancient India, this magnificent diamond has changed hands multiple times, often through conquest and betrayal.
Legends surrounding the Koh-i-Noor claim that it carries a curse, bringing misfortune to the men who possess it. Today, it remains a symbol of colonial history and an ongoing subject of debate between India, the UK, and other nations.
This article explores the origins, history, and myths surrounding the Koh-i-Noor Diamond.
1. What is the Koh-i-Noor Diamond?
The Koh-i-Noor, meaning “Mountain of Light” in Persian, is a 105.6-carat diamond that is now part of the British Crown Jewels. It is widely regarded as one of the most valuable diamonds in the world. Unlike modern cut diamonds, the Koh-i-Noor was originally much larger and in a more natural, uncut state before it was reshaped over centuries.
Currently, the diamond is set in the Crown of Queen Elizabeth, the Queen Mother, and displayed at the Tower of London. However, its journey to Britain is filled with bloodshed, treachery, and colonial conquest.
2. The Origins of the Diamond
The exact origins of the Koh-i-Noor are debated, but it is believed to have been mined in India over 800 years ago. The most widely accepted theory suggests that it came from the Golconda mines, which were famous for producing some of the world's finest diamonds, including the Hope Diamond and Darya-i-Noor.
| Period | Empire/Owner | Key Events |
|---|---|---|
| 13th Century | Kakatiya Dynasty (India) | The diamond is believed to have been first recorded in Indian royal treasures. |
| 14th–16th Century | Delhi Sultanate, Mughal Empire | Passed through various Indian rulers, eventually owned by Mughal Emperor Babur. |
| 1739 | Persian Empire (Nader Shah) | Persian ruler Nader Shah invades India and takes the diamond to Iran. |
| 1813 | Sikh Empire (Ranjit Singh) | The diamond returns to India under the Sikh ruler Maharaja Ranjit Singh. |
| 1849 | British Empire | After the Anglo-Sikh Wars, the British take the diamond and present it to Queen Victoria. |
This long history of conquest and shifting ownership contributed to the legends of the diamond’s curse.
3. The Curse of the Koh-i-Noor
Many believe the Koh-i-Noor is cursed, particularly for men who possess it. According to legend, any male owner of the diamond will suffer misfortune, but it brings prosperity to female owners.
The origins of the curse come from an ancient Hindu text, which supposedly stated:
“He who owns this diamond will own the world, but will also know all its misfortunes. Only God or a woman can wear it with impunity.”
Throughout history, many male rulers who possessed the Koh-i-Noor met tragic fates:
- Nader Shah (Persia) – Assassinated after seizing the diamond.
- Duleep Singh (Sikh Empire) – Lost his kingdom and was exiled to Britain.
- Ranjit Singh’s Successors – The Sikh Empire collapsed after his death.
Perhaps fearing the curse, the British royal family ensured that only queens or consorts would wear the diamond.
4. The Diamond’s Journey Through History
📍 Mughal Era (1526–1739)
The Koh-i-Noor was once one of the prized possessions of the Mughal emperors, who adorned it on their Peacock Throne. It was considered a symbol of divine rule and immense power.
📍 Persian Invasion (1739)
In 1739, Nader Shah of Persia invaded India and looted Delhi, taking the Koh-i-Noor back to Iran. He reportedly named it “Koh-i-Noor”, meaning "Mountain of Light."
📍 Sikh Empire & British Takeover (1813–1849)
The diamond was later acquired by Maharaja Ranjit Singh of the Sikh Empire in Punjab. However, after the British defeated the Sikhs in the Second Anglo-Sikh War (1849), the diamond was forcibly taken and sent to Britain as part of the Treaty of Lahore.
📍 British Rule & Queen Victoria (1850s–Present)
- The Koh-i-Noor was presented to Queen Victoria in 1850.
- It was later re-cut to improve its brilliance, reducing its size significantly.
- The diamond has been worn by British queens ever since.
5. The British Crown and Controversy
The Koh-i-Noor remains one of the most disputed artifacts from colonial history. India, Pakistan, Afghanistan, and Iran have all laid claim to it, arguing that it was taken unjustly.
| Country | Claim |
|---|---|
| India | The diamond was taken under British colonial rule and should be returned. |
| Pakistan | As Punjab was part of modern-day Pakistan, the diamond should belong to them. |
| Afghanistan | Nader Shah took the diamond to Iran, and his successors ruled parts of Afghanistan. |
| UK | The British legally acquired it under the Treaty of Lahore in 1849. |
Despite multiple petitions for its return, the UK has refused to repatriate the Koh-i-Noor, stating that it was obtained legally.
6. Will the Koh-i-Noor Ever Return to India?
The Indian government has repeatedly demanded the return of the Koh-i-Noor, especially during major diplomatic discussions. However, the British government has firmly maintained its position that the diamond was acquired legally and remains an essential part of the Crown Jewels.
Some possible scenarios for its return:
- Diplomatic Agreement: If the UK and India reach a historic settlement, the diamond could be returned as a goodwill gesture.
- Museum Display in India: The UK might agree to lend the diamond for exhibitions in India.
- Legal Action: While unlikely, India could push for international legal intervention.
As global discussions on colonial restitution continue, the fate of the Koh-i-Noor remains uncertain.
Q&A
Q1. Is the Koh-i-Noor the largest diamond in the world?
A1. No, the largest diamond is the Cullinan Diamond. However, the Koh-i-Noor remains one of the most famous and historically significant.
Q2. Why is the Koh-i-Noor considered cursed?
A2. Many rulers who possessed the diamond suffered misfortunes, leading to the belief that it brings bad luck to men but is safe for women.
Q3. Who owns the Koh-i-Noor today?
A3. The British Royal Family owns the Koh-i-Noor, and it is currently set in the Crown of Queen Elizabeth, the Queen Mother.
