Didarganj Yakshini is kept in which museum ?

Question

Accepted Answer

Didarganj Yakshini, also known as the Didarganj Chauri Bearer, is a famous ancient sculpture that is housed in the Patna Museum, Bihar. This sculpture is an exquisite example of Mauryan art and is believed to date back to the 3rd century BCE. It is renowned for its detailed craftsmanship and polished finish, which is characteristic of the Mauryan period.

1. **Explanation for Option 4 (Patna Museum, Bihar):**
   - The Didarganj Yakshini was discovered on the banks of the Ganges River near Didarganj, which is in the vicinity of Patna, Bihar. Given its local significance and historical value, it was placed in the Patna Museum, which is known for its collection of artifacts from the region. The museum serves as a repository for many important historical and cultural artifacts from Bihar, making it the appropriate location for the Didarganj Yakshini.

2. **Explanation for why other options are incorrect:**
   - **Option 1 (National Museum, New Delhi):** While the National Museum in New Delhi houses a vast collection of artifacts from across India, the Didarganj Yakshini is not part of its collection. The sculpture's historical and regional significance to Bihar justifies its placement in the Patna Museum rather than the National Museum.
   - **Option 2 (Albert Museum, Jaipur, Rajasthan):** The Albert Hall Museum in Jaipur primarily focuses on artifacts related to the history and culture of Rajasthan. The Didarganj Yakshini, being a significant piece of Mauryan art from Bihar, does not belong to this museum's collection.
   - **Option 3 (Panipat Museum, Haryana):** The Panipat Museum is dedicated to showcasing the history and heritage of Haryana, particularly focusing on the battles of Panipat. The Didarganj Yakshini, with its origins and significance tied to Bihar, is not housed in this museum.

In conclusion, the Didarganj Yakshini is correctly housed in the Patna Museum, Bihar, due to its historical and cultural significance to the region. This placement allows for the preservation and appreciation of the artifact within its geographical and historical context.