‘Mrichchhakatika’ an ancient Indian book written by Shudraka deals with
Reviewed by Dalvoy
UPSC Civil Services preparation
- AThe love affair of a rich merchant with the daughter of a courtesanCorrect
- BThe victory of Chandragupta II over the Shaka Kshat-rapas of western India
- CThe military expeditions and exploits of Samudragupta
- DThe love affair between a Gupta King and a princess of Kamarupa
Explanation
The correct answer is A because Mrichchhakatika, which translates to The Little Clay Cart, is a Sanskrit play attributed to Shudraka. The plot centers on the romance between Charudatta, a noble but impoverished Brahmin merchant, and Vasantasena, a wealthy and virtuous courtesan. Unlike many ancient texts that focused on kings or gods, this play is unique for its realistic portrayal of urban life, common citizens, and social dynamics in ancient India.
Options B and C refer to historical achievements of the Gupta emperors, which are typically found in inscriptions like the Allahabad Pillar or works like Devi-Chandraguptam. Option D describes a fictional or historical royal romance not associated with this specific text.
Related questions
More UPSC Prelims practice from the same subject and topic.
- Prelims 2003GS1art-and-culture
Dilip Kaur Tiwana is well known as a
- Prelims 2003GS1art-and-culture
Tim Montgomery set a new world record at the IAAF Grand Prix final in the year 2002 in
- Prelims 2003GS1art-and-culture
Whom did Mahesh Bhupati and Max Mirnyi beat in the US Open men’s doubles tennis championship in the year 2002 to win the title?
- Prelims 2003GS1art-and-culture
Who among the following was selected for the 2001 Dada Saheb Phalke Award?
- Prelims 2003GS1art-and-culture
Who won the title in the finals of French Open men’s singles tennis championship in the year 2002?
- Prelims 2003GS1art-and-culture
Match List I (Cricketer) with List II (country) and select the correct answer using the codes given below the lists: List I (Cricketer) A. Barry Richards 1. England B. Ted Dexter 2. West Indies C. Ala…