Historical Drama in Sanskrit

Who is the protagonist of Malvikagnimitra?

Agnimitra, the son of the founder of the Shunga dynasty, is the protagonist of Kalidasa's play Malvikagnimitra.

Primary Reference: NCERT Class XII - Themes in Indian History Part I

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The protagonist of the Play 'Malvikagnimitra', written by Kalidasa is

[U.P.P.C.S. (Pre) 1998]

Detailed Solution & Historical Context

Concept


Kalidasa's dramas often utilized historical figures as central characters, weaving romance into real political settings.

Authentic Source Evidence


Agnimitra, the son of Pushyamitra Shunga, is the hero of the play Malvikagnimitra.

Analytical Breakdown


  • Option C is Correct: He was the second king of the Shunga dynasty.

  • Plot: The play follows his love for the maidservant Malavika, who is ultimately revealed to be a princess.

  • Historical Context: It mentions the Shunga victory over the Greeks (Yavanas) and the Vidarbha kingdom.
  • Conceptual Deep Dive & Logic

    "Which era does Malvikagnimitra provide information about?"

    The post-Mauryan period, specifically the political intrigues and territorial expansions of the Shunga dynasty.

    Examiner's Mindset & Pro-Tip

    "Agnimitra's portrayal as a romantic hero helped humanize the Shunga rulers in the literary memory of the Gupta period."

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