Vishakhadatta wrote_____.

Answer: Vishakhadatta wrote Mudra Rakshasa, a famous Sanskrit historical drama. It tells the story of how Chanakya (Kautilya) helped Chandragupta Maurya defeat the Nanda dynasty and secure the Mauryan throne. The play is known for its political intrigue and clever diplomacy. Thus, the correct answer is option C.

Complete Answer: 

Vishakhadatta wrote Mudra Rakshasa is a political drama in Sanskrit written, likely in the 4th to 6th century CE. The play is a remarkable piece of classical literature, blending history with fiction. It focuses on the clever strategies of Chanakya (Kautilya) to establish Chandragupta Maurya as the ruler after overthrowing the corrupt Nanda dynasty. The title translates to “The Signet Ring of the Demon”.

This work is valued not just as literature, but also for its insight into the political thinking and statecraft of ancient India. The characters like Chanakya and Rakshasa (minister of the Nandas) are portrayed with depth and intelligence, reflecting the intellectual sophistication of the time.

Let’s understand why other options are incorrect:

A) Meghdoota: This was written by Kalidasa, one of the greatest Sanskrit poets. Meghdoota is a lyrical poem (kāvya) that narrates the story of a Yaksha (celestial being) who sends a message to his distant wife through a cloud. It is a romantic and emotional poem, not a political drama.

B) Raghuvamsha: Also authored by Kalidasa, Raghuvamsha is a Sanskrit epic that details the genealogy and heroic deeds of the Raghu dynasty, to which Lord Rama belonged. It is a grand poetic work, different in both style and theme from Vishakhadatta’s political drama.

D) Mrichchakatikam: This play, meaning “The Little Clay Cart,” was written by Shudraka, another ancient Sanskrit playwright. It is a ten-act Sanskrit drama dealing with romance, intrigue, and social issues. The story revolves around a poor Brahmin named Charudatta and a courtesan named Vasantasena.

Thus, Vishakhadatta is the author of Mudra Rakshasa, while the other works were written by Kalidasa (Meghdoota, Raghuvamsha) and Shudraka (Mrichchakatikam).

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