Mudrarakshasa: The Political Drama of Chanakya
Visakhadutta's play 'Mudrarakshasa' focuses on the political strategies and court intrigues during the rise of Chandragupta Maurya.
Primary Reference: NCERT Class XII - Themes in Indian History Part I
Archived:
Updated:
Exam Year
2002
Evidence Source
Link ↗The ancient Indian play Mudrarakshasa of Visakhadutt has its subject on:
[UPSC CSE Pre. 2002, GS Paper I]
Detailed Solution & Historical Context
Concept
Mudrarakshasa is a unique Sanskrit political thriller that lacks a female lead or a romantic subplot, focusing entirely on statecraft.
Authentic Source Evidence
Written during the Gupta period but set in the Mauryan era, it narrates Chanakya's efforts to secure Chandragupta's throne.
Analytical Breakdown
Conceptual Deep Dive & Logic
"Who is the antagonist that Chanakya tries to win over in the play?"
Examiner's Mindset & Pro-Tip
"The play emphasizes that the preservation of the state depends on the intelligence and loyalty of the minister as much as the king's power."
Topic Clusters (click to see related topic questions)
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