Darsaka's Historicity Testimony

The question asks for the evidence confirming the historical existence of Darsaka, the successor of Ajatasatru in Magadha, as mentioned in Puranic genealogies.

Literary Evidence for Darsaka

The historicity of Darsaka is primarily supported by literary sources that place him within the historical context of ancient India. While Puranic texts mention his lineage, specific contemporary or near-contemporary testimonies are often found in later literature.

• Svapnavasavadatta: This famous Sanskrit play, attributed to the playwright Bhasa, is considered a key piece of evidence. Although the play focuses on King Udayana of Vatsa and his queen Vasavadatta, Puranic and Buddhist chronicles identify Udayana as the son of Darsaka. The existence and cultural significance of the play, referencing figures linked to Darsaka's dynasty, indirectly corroborate the existence of this historical period and its rulers, including Darsaka himself.

Evaluating Other Options

The other literary works mentioned are less relevant for establishing Darsaka's historicity:

• Arthasastra: Attributed to Kautilya, this text primarily deals with statecraft and administration, mostly referencing the Mauryan period, which is later than Darsaka.
• Mudrarakshasa: This play by Vishakhadatta is set during the reign of Chandragupta Maurya, much later than Darsaka's time.
• Devi-Chandraguptam: Also attributed to Vishakhadatta, this play deals with events related to Chandragupta II, placing it in the Gupta period, long after Darsaka.

Therefore, Svapnavasavadatta provides the most relevant testimony among the choices, albeit indirectly, by referencing figures associated with Darsaka's lineage and reign.