Who wrote Mrichchakatikam?

Question

Accepted Answer

The correct option is 3:

The Sanskrit drama *Mrichchakatikam*, meaning "The Little Clay Cart," is traditionally attributed to the ancient Indian playwright Shudraka. This play is one of the most celebrated examples of *prakarana* (a play based on a social theme) in classical Indian theatre, moving away from royal court settings to portray the everyday lives of common people. It features a complex plot involving the impoverished Brahmin Charudatta and the wealthy courtesan Vasantasena, providing a nuanced view of urban life, judicial corruption, and social realities. While the exact historical dating of Shudraka remains debated (possibly Gupta era, 4th–5th century CE), his authorship of this 10-act drama is firmly established in literary history, distinguishing it as a masterpiece for its realism, humor, and depth of characterization.

The incorrect option is 1:
Kalidasa was arguably the greatest Sanskrit poet and dramatist, famous for works like *Abhijnanasakuntalam*, *Meghaduta*, and *Raghuvamsa*. Although he was a contemporary or near-contemporary of Shudraka, he did not write *Mrichchakatikam*.

The incorrect option is 2:
Vishakhadatta is renowned for his political drama *Mudrarakshasa* ("The Signet Ring of Rakshasa"). This play deals with the political maneuvering and diplomacy involved in the rise of Chandragupta Maurya, which is entirely different in genre and subject matter from the social themes explored in *Mrichchakatikam*.

The incorrect option is 4:
Divakar is not recognized as the author of *Mrichchakatikam*. While many other ancient Indian poets and writers existed, Divakar is not associated with this particular celebrated Sanskrit play, making this option factually incorrect in the context of Sanskrit literature.