Which of the following Sanskrit works are considered as biographies/ historical narratives of ancient Indian kings?

A. Svapnavasavadatta

B. Harshacharita

C. Mudrarakshasa

D. Vikramorvashiya

E. Shivsangrama

Choose the correct answer from the options given below:

The correct answer is: B and C only

Key Points

• Svapnavasavadatta:
  • Svapnavasavadatta (The dream of Vasavadatta) is a Sanskrit play in six acts written by the ancient Indian poet Bhasa.
  • ​It is probably the best known of Bhāsa's works.
  • The plot of the drama is drawn from the romantic narratives about the Vatsa king Udayana and Vasavadatta, the daughter of Pradyota, the ruler of Avanti, which were current in the poet's time and which seem to have captivated popular imagination. Hence (A) is incorrect.
•  Harshacharita:
  • "Harshacharita" is a Sanskrit biography of King Harsha, written by the Indian poet and writer Banabhatta.
  • It is one of the earliest examples of biography writing in Indian literature and provides a vivid description of King Harsha's life, his kingdom, and his court.
  • The book is considered a classic of Indian literature and provides valuable insights into the culture and society of 7th century India. Hence (B) is correct.
• Mudrarakshasa:
  • "Mudrarakshasa" is a Sanskrit play written by the ancient Indian playwright Vishakhadatta.
  • It is a political drama set in the court of the king of Magadha and deals with the rise of the king Chandragupta Maurya to the throne.
  • The play showcases the use of diplomacy, intrigue, and cunning to attain political power and is considered an early example of Indian political fiction. Hence (C) is correct.
• Vikramorvashiya:
  • "Vikramorvashiya" is a Sanskrit play written by the ancient Indian playwright Kalidasa.
  • It is a romantic drama and is one of the greatest works of Sanskrit literature.
  • The play is set in the court of King Pururavas and tells the story of his love affair with the celestial nymph Urvashi.
  • The play explores themes of love, duty, and desire and is notable for its intricate plot, lyrical language, and vivid characterizations which seem to have captivated popular imagination. Hence (D) is Incorrect.
• Shivsangrama:
  • "Shivsangrama" is a Hindu devotional text that narrates the story of the marriage of the Hindu deity Lord Shiva and the goddess Parvati.

  • The text is also known as "Shiv Parvati Vivah" and "Shiv Vivah". The author of "Shivsangrama" is not known. Hence (E) is incorrect.

Hence, we can conclude that the following Sanskrit works are considered as biographies/ historical narratives of ancient Indian kings: