Question

Who among the following has written the play of Mudrarakshasha (narrates the ascent of the king Chandragupta Maurya)?
A. Kautilya
B. Vishakhadatta
C. Kalidasa
D. Panini

Answer 1

Hint: The Mudrarakshasa is a famous Sanskrit language play that narrates the conquest of the famous king Chandragupta Maurya to power in India. The play is dated between the late 4th century to the 8th century CE. It was translated by RS pandit in the 6th century.

Complete answer: The famous Sanskrit play Mudrarakshasa is written by Vishakhadatta that narrates the story of King Chandragupta Maurya and how he came to power in India. It is one of the classic examples of creative writing and not entirely or completely fictional. The play is based on a political thriller set in an interesting period in Indian history.
Now we will discuss why the other three are not a suitable answer to this question.
-Kautilya or Chanakya is famous for writing one of the best works known as Arthashastra translated to the science of wealth. The book has explored many themes such as law, civil and court systems, nature of government, ethics, markets and trade theories, and on the duties and obligations of king etcetera.
-Kalidasa in 4th to 5th century CE was a classical Sanskrit author and is often regarded as the ancient greatest dramatist and playwright. His poetry and plays were primarily based on the Mahabharata, Puranas, Vedas and the Ramayana. He has composed many famous works such as Raghuvansham Malavikagnimitra, Meghduta etcetera.
-Panini was an ancient Sanskrit philologist and grammarian. He is also considered as a father of linguistics. He was also the founder of Sanskrit grammar.
Therefore, the correct answer is option B.

Note: The play is written in the time of Chanakya, Chandragupta Maurya and Nanda. The play revolves around how Kusumapura, who was the last Nanda king, had renounced the world and his Kingdom was taken over by Chandragupta Maurya and Chanakya.