Question

Which of the following are similarity-based (Samya-moolaka) figures of speech?
A. Upama
B. Utpreksha
C. Rupakam
D. Vibhavana
E. Arthantaranyasa
Choose the correct answer from the options given below:

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

Hint:

Think of the "Aupamya Family": Upama (Similarity), Rupaka (Identity), Utpreksha (Supposition), Ananvaya (Unique), etc. All these rely on comparing one thing to another based on shared traits.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is D

Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
In Sanskrit poetics, 'Alamkaras' (figures of speech) are categorized based on their underlying logical structure. One of the largest categories is 'Samya-moolaka' or 'Aupamyamulaka', where the beauty of the expression depends on the 'Sadharmya' (similarity) between the 'Upameya' (the subject) and the 'Upamana' (the standard of comparison).

Step 3: Detailed Explanation:
Let us examine the categories of the given Alamkaras:

1. A. Upama (Simile): This is the quintessential similarity-based figure. It is defined as "Sadharmyam upamā bhede". It states a clear resemblance between two distinct things.

2. B. Utpreksha (Supposition): This is also based on similarity. It is defined as "Sambhāvanamathotprekṣā prakṛtasya samena yat". Here, because of a similarity, the subject is poetically 'supposed' or 'imagined' to be the object of comparison.

3. C. Rupakam (Metaphor): This involves the 'imposition' of the object of comparison onto the subject based on their intense similarity. It is defined as "Tadrūpyakamabhedo ya upamānopameyayoḥ". Because they are so similar, they are treated as identical.

4. D. Vibhavana: This belongs to the 'Virodha-moolaka' (opposition-based) or logical figures. It describes an effect occurring without its natural cause. It has nothing to do with similarity.

5. E. Arthantaranyasa (Corroboration): This is a logical figure where a particular statement is supported by a general one, or vice versa. It is based on corroborative logic, not similarity between two objects.

Thus, A, B, and C are the only similarity-based Alamkaras in the list.

Step 4: Final Answer:
Upama, Utpreksha, and Rupakam are based on 'Sadharmya'. Hence, Option (D) is correct.