Question 955

What is the Vrindavani Vastra, which is set to be loaned by the British Museum to Assam for public exhibition in 2027?

Answer

Tapestry

Why?

The correct answer is Tapestry. In News The British Museum has agreed to loan the 16th-century Vrindavani Vastra to Assam in 2027 for an 18-month public exhibition. Key Points The Vrindavani Vastra is a magnificent silk tapestry created in the 16th century under the guidance of saint-reformer Srimanta Sankardeva , the central figure of Assam's Vaishnavite movement. It was originally commissioned by Koch king Nara Narayan and depicts scenes from Lord Krishna's life in Vrindavan. The tapestry consists of 15 panels, assembled into a textile measuring 937 cm × 231 cm , rich in vibrant motifs and narrative art. It has a significant historical and cultural value, showcasing the fusion of spirituality and artistry while representing Assamese cultural identity and the Vaishnavite Bhakti movement. Additional Information History of the Vrindavani Vastra The tapestry was taken to Tibet and repurposed in a monastery at Gobshi . It was later acquired during the 1904 Younghusband expedition by British journalist Perceval Landon . Initially miscatalogued as Tibetan silk, its Assamese origin was rediscovered decades later. Significance The Vrindavani Vastra stands as a testimony to Assamese cultural identity and Vaishnavite practices. It enhances global awareness of India’s heritage , contributing to the conversation about the repatriation of cultural artefacts.