[Solved] Manibhadra Yaksha Statue Location | Parkham | Concept & Explanation

Among Mauryan idols, the idol inscribed with the name Manibhadra (Yaksha) was found from which place?

[R.A.S./R.T.S. (Pre.) 2021]

Detailed Solution & Historical Context

Concept

Yaksha worship was a dominant folk tradition in ancient India, and colossal Yaksha statues from the Mauryan and Post-Mauryan periods represent the earliest large-scale stone sculptures in India.

Authentic Source Evidence

The famous inscribed Yaksha statue representing 'Manibhadra' was discovered at Parkham, near Mathura. Standing at over 2.5 meters, it features a Brahmi inscription identifying it as the image of Yaksha Manibhadra, made by the artist Gomitaka.

Analytical Breakdown

Logic 1: While Besnagar has a famous Yakshi and Noh has another Yaksha, the specific 'Manibhadra' inscription is uniquely associated with the Parkham find.

Logic 2: This statue is a key reference point for the 'Mathura School's' transition into monumental iconic art.

Conceptual Deep Dive & Logic

"Who was Manibhadra in ancient Indian lore?"

Manibhadra was considered the chief of the Yakshas and a popular deity associated with wealth and merchant protection.

Examiner's Mindset & Pro-Tip

"The Parkham Yaksha demonstrates that stone sculpture in India began with powerful, massive depictions of folk deities before the iconic representation of the Buddha."

Topic Clusters (click to see related topic questions)

Mathura School 7