Question

Arrange the following 'Gadyakavya' (Prose) authors in their correct chronological order:
A. Dandin
B. Subandhu
C. Banabhattah
D. Kshamarava
E. Ambikadattavyasah
Choose the correct answer from the options given below:

• A. A, B, C, D, E
• B. B, C, A, E, D
• C. C, B, A, E, D
• D. B, A, C, D, E

Hint:

Chronology shortcut for Prose:
Classical: Subandhu (Oldest) $\rightarrow$ Bana $\rightarrow$ Dandin.
Modern: Ambikadatta Vyasa (19th) $\rightarrow$ Kshama Rao (20th).
Subandhu's Vasavadatta is known for being the "hardest" prose, which Bana then refined into "lush" prose.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is B

Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
Establishing the relative dates of the 'Trio of Prose' (Subandhu, Bana, and Dandin) has been a subject of long scholarly debate. However, modern research into cross-references and the evolution of style has led to a standard chronological sequence. The list also includes modern prose writers, making it a comprehensive test of historical knowledge from the 6th to the 20th century.

Step 3: Detailed Explanation:
The chronological sequence is as follows:

1. B. Subandhu: Author of 'Vasavadatta'. He is generally considered the earliest of the classical prose trio, placing him in the late 6th century AD. Bana mentions him with respect.

2. C. Banabhattah: Author of 'Kadambari' and 'Harshacharita'. His date is firmly fixed in the early 7th century AD as he was the court poet of King Harshavardhana.

3. A. Dandin: Author of 'Dashakumaracharita'. Most scholars now place him after Bana, in the early 8th century AD (Pallava period), although some earlier views placed him before. He represents the culmination of the ornate prose style.

4. E. Ambikadattavyasah (1858-1900): He wrote 'Shivarajavijayam' in the late 19th century. He is the most important writer of the modern prose revival.

5. D. Kshamarava (Pandita Kshama Rao) (1890-1954): She was a prolific 20th-century writer known for her Sanskrit biographies of Gandhi and historical novels. She represents the mid-20th century.

Sequence: Subandhu $\rightarrow$ Banabhatta $\rightarrow$ Dandin $\rightarrow$ Ambikadatta $\rightarrow$ Kshamarava. This corresponds to B, C, A, E, D.

Step 4: Final Answer:
The correct chronological order is B, C, A, E, D. Thus, Option (B) is correct.