Question

Identify the famous 'Gadyakarah' (Prose writers) of Sanskrit literature from the following:
A. Banabhattah
B. Dandin
C. Ambikadattavyasah
D. Bhattanarayanah
E. Maghah
Choose the correct answer from the options given below:

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

Hint:

For Prose writers, remember the "Trio of Classical Prose": Subandhu, Banabhatta, and Dandin. Adding the modern giant Ambikadatta Vyasa completes the major list for most competitive exams.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is C

Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
Sanskrit literature is divided into Padya (Poetry), Gadya (Prose), and Champu (Mixed). While many poets used prose sparingly, certain writers are exclusively or primarily celebrated as masters of the 'Gadya' (prose) style. These writers developed complex structures like the 'Katha' and 'Akhyayika'.

Step 3: Detailed Explanation:
Let's categorize the writers in the list:

1. A. Banabhattah: The most celebrated prose writer in Sanskrit. He authored 'Kadambari' (a Katha) and 'Harshacharita' (an Akhyayika). He is known for his intricate and lush prose style.

2. B. Dandin: A major prose writer and rhetorician. He authored the 'Dashakumaracharita' (The Tales of Ten Princes), which is a masterpiece of storytelling and prose style.

3. C. Ambikadattavyasah: A modern Sanskrit scholar who wrote 'Shivarajavijayam', the first modern historical novel in Sanskrit prose. He is often called the 'Adhunika-Bana' (Modern Bana).

4. D. Bhattanarayanah: He is a Natakakara (Playwright). He is famous for the play 'Venisamhara'. While drama contains prose dialogue, his primary identity is that of a dramatist.

5. E. Maghah: He is a Mahakavi (Epic Poet). He authored the 'Shishupalavadha', which is a metrical epic (Mahakavya), not a prose work.

Thus, A, B, and C are the primary prose writers.

Step 4: Final Answer:
Banabhatta, Dandin, and Ambikadatta Vyasa are the giants of the Sanskrit prose tradition. Therefore, Option (C) is the correct answer.