Question

Given below are two statements: one is labelled as Assertion (A) and the other is labelled as Reason (R).
Assertion (A): In the play 'Uttararamacharita', Karuna Rasa is the predominant sentiment.
Reason (R): In the 'Uttararamacharita', the absence of the Vidushaka (the jester/clown) is observed.
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:

Bhavabhuti's plays ('Uttararamacharita' and 'Malatimadhava') are rare for their lack of a Vidushaka. This highlights his preference for intense, serious emotional exploration over variety-based entertainment.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is A

Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
Bhavabhuti's 'Uttararamacharita' is famous for its unique handling of the Karuna Rasa and its departure from typical dramatic conventions.

Step 3: Detailed Explanation:
Statement (A) is true.
Bhavabhuti is known as the master of the Pathetic sentiment.
He famously proclaimed: "Eko rasah karuna eva" (There is only one Rasa, and that is Karuna).
The play describes the deep suffering of Rama and Sita after their separation, especially the psychological torment of Rama in the third act (Chaya-anka).

Statement (R) is also true.
The 'Vidushaka' is a standard character in most Sanskrit Rupakas (like Natakas and Prakaranas) whose role is to provide comic relief (Hasya Rasa).
However, in 'Uttararamacharita', there is no Vidushaka.
This absence is deliberate. The tragedy and the depth of sorrow in this play are so intense that the presence of a comic jester would disrupt the aesthetic unity of the 'Karuna' atmosphere.
Bhavabhuti's goal was to create a pure, unadulterated experience of empathy and pathos.
The serious, dignified, and sorrowful tone of the work is maintained by removing any elements that might incite laughter.
Therefore, the absence of the Vidushaka (R) is a direct consequence and a structural choice that serves to maintain and explain the predominance of Karuna Rasa (A).

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