Identifying the Composer of 'Rasamanjari'

The question asks us to identify the composer of the well-known Sanskrit text titled 'Rasamanjari'. This text is an important work in Sanskrit literature, particularly focusing on the study of aesthetics and poetics.

'Rasamanjari' delves into the nuances of shringara rasa, which is the romantic or erotic sentiment. It primarily classifies different types of नायिका (Nayika or heroines) and नायक (Nayaka or heroes) based on their emotional states, situations, and interactions within the context of love and separation. Understanding these classifications is crucial for appreciating classical Indian dance, music, and literature.

Analyzing the Options

Let's look at the provided options and see which one is associated with the composition of 'Rasamanjari':

• Bharavi: Bharavi was a famous Sanskrit poet, known primarily for his epic poem 'Kiratarjuniya'. This work describes the conflict between Arjuna and Shiva (disguised as a Kirata or hunter). Bharavi is not the composer of 'Rasamanjari'.
• Charudatta: Charudatta is the name of a prominent character in Shudraka's famous Sanskrit play 'Mrichchhakatika' (The Little Clay Cart). While a significant figure in literature, Charudatta himself is a character, not typically listed as the composer of 'Rasamanjari'.
• Kamandaka: Kamandaka was the author of 'Nitisara' (Essentials of Polity), a Sanskrit text on statecraft and political science, influenced by Kautilya's 'Arthashastra'. Kamandaka is not the composer of 'Rasamanjari'.
• Bhanudatta: Bhanudatta is a celebrated Sanskrit writer who composed several works, including 'Rasamanjari' and 'Rasatarangini'. He is renowned for his contributions to the fields of poetics and dramaturgy, particularly his detailed classification of नायिका and नायक.

Confirming Bhanudatta as the Composer

Based on literary history and scholarly consensus, Bhanudatta is the widely accepted composer of the Sanskrit text 'Rasamanjari'. He is believed to have lived in the 15th or 16th century, possibly in Mithila. His work 'Rasamanjari' is a concise and popular text on the topic of Nayika-Bheda (classification of heroines), which became influential among later poets and artists.

Therefore, the correct composer among the given options is Bhanudatta.

Revision Table: Key Authors and Works

Additional Information on Rasamanjari

'Rasamanjari' is significant because it systematically categorizes the different types of heroines (Nayikas) based on their age, state of mind, and relationship with their beloved. The primary classifications often discussed include:

• Swadhinapatika: One whose husband is under her control.
• Vasakasajja: One preparing for the arrival of her lover.
• Virahotkanthita: One distressed by separation.
• Abhisarika: One who goes to meet her lover.
• Khandita: One whose lover has been unfaithful.
• Kalahantarita: One separated by a quarrel.
• Prositapatika: One whose lover is away.
• Pravatsyatpatika: One whose lover is about to go away.

Understanding these types is essential for students studying classical Indian arts and literature, as they form the basis for expressing various emotions and narrative situations.