Which one of the following is a work attributed to playwright Bhasa ?
- A. (a) Kavyalankara
- B. (b) Natyashastra
- C. (c) Madhyama-vyayoga
- D. (d) Mahabhashya
Answer: C
Explanation
This question tests knowledge of ancient Indian playwrights and their works. Madhyama-vyayoga is a Sanskrit play attributed to Bhasa, an early and significant Sanskrit dramatist. Other famous plays by Bhasa include Dutavakya, Karnabhara, and Urubhanga. Kavyalankara is a work on poetics, attributed to Bhamaha or Dandin, not Bhasa. Natyashastra is a foundational treatise on performing arts, including drama, dance, and music, attributed to Bharata Muni. Mahabhashya is a commentary on Panini’s Ashtadhyayi (Sanskrit grammar), written by Patanjali. Therefore, Madhyama-vyayoga is the correct answer. Knowledge of classical Indian literature and its authors is an important part of the UPSC Art & Culture syllabus.