Who among the following is the author of Mudrarakshasa?

Correct option is B

​Correct Answer:(b) Visakhadatta​

The Sanskrit play Mudrarakshasa was written by Visakhadatta. This historical drama is set in the era of the Mauryan Empire and depicts the political intrigue during the time of Chandragupta Maurya and his advisor, Chanakya (Kautilya).

Key Details About Mudrarakshasa:

1. Theme:
• The play focuses on Chanakya's cunning strategies to bring Chandragupta Maurya to power and consolidate the Mauryan Empire by defeating the Nanda dynasty.
• "Mudra" refers to a signet ring, and "Rakshasa" refers to the character Amatya Rakshasa, a loyal minister of the Nandas.
2. Genre:
• A political drama showcasing diplomacy, espionage, and strategic alliances.
3. Significance:
• Provides insights into the socio-political conditions of ancient India.
• Highlights Chanakya's intellect and statecraft.

Information Booster:
● Visakhadatta is known primarily for Mudrarakshasa and another play, Devichandraguptam (now mostly lost).
● The play is an example of classical Sanskrit literature with its intricate plot and vivid character portrayals.
● Chanakya's tactics in the play are often cited as examples of early Indian political science and strategy.

Additional Knowledge:

• (a) Kalidas: Incorrect; he is known for works like Abhijnanashakuntalam and Meghaduta, not Mudrarakshasa.
• (b) Visakhadatta: Correct; authored Mudrarakshasa.
• (c) Ashvaghosh: Incorrect; he wrote Buddhacharita and other Buddhist texts.

(d) Bhas: Incorrect; he authored plays like Swapnavasavadattam and Pratijna Yaugandharayana