Understanding the Author of Nagananda, Ratnavali, and Priyadarshika

The question asks to identify the emperor who authored the famous Sanskrit plays: Nagananda, Ratnavali, and Priyadarshika. These literary works are significant examples of ancient Indian drama.

Identifying the Author

Historically, Emperor Harsh Vardhan (also known as Harsha) is credited with writing these three prominent plays. Harsh Vardhan ruled a large empire in North India from 606 to 647 CE. He was not only a powerful ruler but also a patron of arts and learning, and a writer himself.

About the Plays

Let's briefly look at the plays attributed to Harsh Vardhan:

• Nagananda: This play is a Buddhist drama focusing on the Jataka tale of Jimutavahana, a Bodhisattva who sacrifices himself to save the Naga (serpent) community. It highlights themes of self-sacrifice and compassion.
• Ratnavali: A romantic comedy centered around the king Udayana and his love for princess Ratnavali.
• Priyadarshika: Another romantic comedy about the king Udayana and his love for another princess, Priyadarshika.

While some scholars debate whether Harsh Vardhan wrote these plays himself or commissioned someone else under his name, the tradition widely attributes them to him.

Analyzing the Options

Let's consider the given options:

• Harsh Vardhan: As discussed, Harsh Vardhan is traditionally credited with writing Nagananda, Ratnavali, and Priyadarshika.
• Shashank: Shashank was a contemporary rival of Harsh Vardhan and the ruler of Gauda. He was not known as a playwright.
• Vikramaditya: This title was used by several Indian kings. The most famous Vikramaditya is often associated with the Gupta period, known for Kalidasa, but not for writing these specific plays.
• Chandragupta Maurya: Chandragupta Maurya was the founder of the Mauryan Empire (4th century BCE). These plays were written much later.

Based on historical and literary tradition, Harsh Vardhan is the correct emperor associated with these works.

Conclusion

The emperor known for writing the books Nagananda, Ratnavali, and Priyadarshika is Harsh Vardhan.

Revision Table: Harsh Vardhan's Plays

Additional Information on Emperor Harsh Vardhan

Emperor Harsh Vardhan was a significant ruler of the Vardhana dynasty. His reign marked a period of political consolidation in North India after the decline of the Gupta Empire. Beyond his military and administrative achievements, Harsha was renowned for his cultural contributions and personal interest in literature and philosophy.

• He convened large assemblies, like the one at Kannauj, for religious and philosophical discussions.
• He was a patron of the famous Buddhist monk and traveler Xuanzang (also known as Hiuen Tsang), who visited India during his reign and provided valuable accounts of the period.
• His court was a center of learning and attracted scholars.
• His attributed plays are considered important works in Sanskrit literature, showcasing his literary inclination or patronage of literary talents.

Harsha's rule represents a notable era in ancient Indian history, characterized by both political dynamism and cultural flourishing.