Bihar was separated from Bengal in 1912. A proposal for a provincial museum for Bihar was brought by the then Governor Charles S. Bailey which was passed unanimously. The museum was established in 1915 and the present museum, built in Mughal-Rajput architectural style and considered a symbol of intellectual prosperity of Bihar, was shifted in 1929 after inauguration by Sir Lansdowne.
In this Museum there are many rare artefacts displayed in various galleries. For visitors all required convenience are provided like washrooms, sitting, drinking water, baby care and children’s play area.
The museum is rich in prehistoric, Neolithic, stone sculptures obtained from the various parts of the subcontinent, paintings, coins, manuscripts, stone and mineral, casket Manjusha contains the relics of Buddha which was obtained from clay Stupa built by the republican Lichchavis in their capital Vaishali which is considered the most prestigious collection. It also displays a very old pine tree fossil.
In Buddhism, Tara is a major female deity and savior, who is considered as Buddha. She is known for her compassion and for showing beings the path to enlightenment and Salvation. This statue, carved in the 10th century, was recovered by archaeologists from Cuttack, Odisha. It is a great example of sculpture. Femininity and soft parts have been exquisitely carved. Clothes, ornaments etc. have been carved very skillfully. Mirror-like polish on sandstone is a gift of Mauryan art, which makes the statue very attractive and lively.