The "Didarganj Yakshini" is depicted holding which object in her right hand?

The correct option is A chauri

Explanation

The Didarganj Yakshini is a life-sized free-standing sculpture discovered in Didarganj, Patna. It is considered one of the finest examples of Mauryan art (c. 3rd century BCE), celebrated for its realistic modeling and the characteristic high surface gloss known as the "Mauryan Polish."

Detailed Analysis

The sculpture depicts a semi-divine female figure, or Yakshini, carved from a single piece of Chunar sandstone. The specific iconography of the figure is defined by the object she holds:

• Right Hand: The figure holds a chauri (fly-whisk) in her right hand, which is raised and draped over her right shoulder. Consequently, she is often referred to as the "Chauri-bearer."
• Left Hand: The left arm is broken and missing from the statue.
• Attire and Ornamentation: She is depicted with elaborate jewelry, heavy anklets, and a lower garment secured by a girdle, showcasing the advanced sculpting techniques of the period.

Key Takeaway: The Didarganj Yakshini is a masterpiece of Mauryan sculpture, distinguished by its mirror-like polish and the depiction of a fly-whisk (chauri) held in the right hand.