Question

Identify the 'Sandhis' (Junctures) of a drama from the following:
A. Mukham
B. Arambhah
C. Pratimukham
D. Yatnah
E. Vimarshah
Choose the correct answer from the options given below:

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

Hint:

Remember the "Five-Fold Structure":
Sandhis: Mukha, Pratimukha, Garbha, Vimarsha, Nirvahana.
Karyavasthas: Arambha, Yatna, Praptyasha, Niyatapti, Phalayoga.
Confusing these two lists is a common trap in NTA exams.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is B

Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
In Sanskrit dramaturgy, the plot (Itivritta) is structured using three parallel sequences: the 5 'Artha-prakritis' (Elements of plot), the 5 'Karyavasthas' (Stages of action), and the 5 'Sandhis' (Junctures). A Sandhi is the point of connection where a stage of action meets an element of the plot. This question tests the ability to distinguish between these categories.

Step 3: Detailed Explanation:
There are exactly Five Sandhis:

1. A. Mukham (Opening): This is the first juncture where the seed (Bija) of the plot is sown and the action begins (Arambha).

2. C. Pratimukham (Progression): This is the second juncture where the seed grows and becomes visible, though occasionally obscured. It corresponds to the stage of 'Yatna'.

3. Garbha (Development): (Not in list) This is the third stage of further expansion and search.

4. E. Vimarshah (Pause/Avamarsha): This is the fourth juncture where the goal is near but hindered by some problem or pause.

5. Nirvahanam (Conclusion): (Not in list) The final gathering of all elements leading to the goal.

Analysis of other terms:
- B. Arambhah and D. Yatnah are Karyavasthas (Stages of Action), not Sandhis. The five Karyavasthas are: Arambha, Yatna, Praptyasha, Niyatapti, and Phalagama.

Thus, only A, C, and E are the Sandhis.

Step 4: Final Answer:
Mukha, Pratimukha, and Vimarsha are among the five junctures of a play. Hence, Option (B) is the correct choice.