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UPSC CSE Pre 2003

Ancient Sanskrit Literature

Authentic Past Paper Standard Evaluation

'Mrichchhakatika', an ancient Indian book written by Shudraka deals with:

Solution & Analysis

Answer: A

Concept 'Mrichchhakatika' (The Little Clay Cart) is a standout work in Sanskrit drama for its focus on common people and social realism rather than purely royal or mythological themes.

Explanation Written by Shudraka, the play centers on the romance between Charudatta, a noble but impoverished merchant, and Vasantasena, a wealthy and virtuous courtesan (daughter of a courtesan).

Logical Breakup
Logic 1: Unlike other heroic plays, this 'Prakarana' (type of play) deals with the life of a merchant (Charudatta) in the city of Ujjain.
Logic 2: Options B, C, and D describe political or royal histories (like *Devichandraguptam* or *Allahabad Prasasti*) which are not the subject of this specific work.

Active Recall

Question

What does 'Mrichchhakatika' mean?

Answer

It translates to 'The Little Clay Cart', referring to a pivotal scene involving a toy cart made of clay.

Core Insight

Shudraka's work is unique for its era because it portrays the struggles of the urban middle class and the complexities of social morality.

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