Question

Given below are two statements: one is labelled as Assertion (A) and the other is labelled as Reason (R).
Assertion (A): 'Rupaka' is a form of visual poetry (Drishya Kavya).
Reason (R): The 'Rupana' (imposition) of characters like Rama etc. onto the actors is observed in a Rupaka.
In 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:

Note the double meaning of 'Rupaka': in poetics, it is a figure of speech (Metaphor); in dramaturgy, it refers to the 10 major types of plays. In both cases, the root concept is 'imposition' (Aropa).

Answer 1

The Correct Option is A

Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
This question deals with the definition and etymology of 'Rupaka' (Drama) in Sanskrit dramaturgy.

Step 3: Detailed Explanation:
Statement (A) claims that Rupaka is a 'Drishya Kavya' (visual/enactable poetry).
Sanskrit literature is divided into 'Shravya' (to be heard) and 'Drishya' (to be seen).
Dramas are categorized as 'Drishya Kavya' because they are realized through performance and visual representation on stage.
Therefore, Assertion (A) is true.

Statement (R) provides the etymological reason for the name 'Rupaka'.
The 'Dasharupaka' of Dhananjaya explains: "Rupakam tat samaropat" (It is called Rupaka due to the superimposition).
In a drama, the actor (Nata) takes on the form, behavior, and identity of the historical or mythological character (Neta).
For instance, the actor 'becomes' Rama through the four types of Abhinaya (Angika, Vachika, Aharya, Sattvika).
Because the identity of the 'character' is imposed ('Rupana') upon the 'actor', the genre is termed 'Rupaka'.
This 'Rupana' or imposition is the very essence of why it is a visual form meant for performance rather than just reading.
Thus, Reason (R) is not only true but also correctly explains why the genre is called 'Rupaka' and classified as visual poetry.

Step 4: Final Answer:
Both (A) and (R) are correct, and (R) is the correct explanation for (A). Therefore, Option (A) is correct.