Question

Given below are two statements: one is labelled as Assertion (A) and the other is labelled as Reason (R).
Assertion (A): Natyashashtra is created by the Swatimuni.
Reason (R): Natyashashtra is also called Panchamveda.
In the light of the above statements, choose the most appropriate answer from the options given below:

• A. Both (A) and (R) are correct and (R) is the correct explanation of (A)
• B. Both (A) and (R) are correct but (R) is not the correct explanation of (A)
• C. (A) is correct but (R) is not correct
• D. (A) is not correct but (R) is correct

Hint:

Always associate the Natyashastra directly with Bharat Muni as its author. Remember that it is called the Pancham Veda because it integrates elements from all four original Vedas.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is D

Concept: Evaluating historical musicological texts involves verifying the correct authorship and traditional honorific names recorded in ancient Indian performing arts literature.

Step 1: Evaluate Assertion (A).
Assertion (A) states that the Natyashastra was composed by Sage Swati (Swatimuni). According to historical consensus and traditional texts, the authorship of the Natyashastra is credited to Acharya Bharat (Bharat Muni). While Sage Swati is mentioned within the text as an ancient master who helped develop percussion instruments after listening to the sound of raindrops, he is not the author of the treatise. Therefore, Assertion (A) is false.

Step 2: Evaluate Reason (R).
Reason (R) states that the Natyashastra is also referred to as the Pancham Veda (the Fifth Veda). Because it combined elements from the four original Vedas (recitation from Rigveda, singing from Samaveda, gesture expression from Yajurveda, and emotion from Atharvaveda) to make knowledge accessible to all of society, it is traditionally honored with this name. This makes Reason (R) factually correct.