Which religious sect has been ridiculed in the text named Mattavilasprahasan written by Mahendra Varman I?

Correct option is C

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• The Mattavilasa Prahasana is a famous Sanskrit farce (satirical play) written by Pallava king Mahendravarman I in the 7th century CE.It is a one-act play that satirizes various religious sects, especially focusing on their hypocrisy and pretensions.The main target of ridicule in the text is the Kapalika sect.

• Kapalikas were an extreme Shaivite sect known for their esoteric rituals, including carrying a skull (kapala), drinking alcohol, and dwelling in cremation grounds.Mahendravarman I ridicules their unorthodox practices and moral laxity through this play.

Additional Knowledge:

• Kalmukh: Not specifically targeted in this play.

• Shaiva: While Kapalikas are a Shaiva sect, general Shaivism isn’t mocked.

• Pashupata: Another Shaivite sect, but not the main subject of satire in this text.

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