Political Science · Indian Political Thought
Which of these classical texts mention Kautilya's Arthashastra?
- 1. Mudrarakshasa by Vishakhadatta
- 2. Dashakumaracharita by Dandin
- 3. Kathasaritsagara by Somadeva
- 4. Jain and Buddhist texts
A1, 2 and 4
B1, 3 and 4
C1, 2 and 3
D1, 2, 3 and 4 ✓ Correct
Correct answer: (D) 1, 2, 3 and 4 — All four sources refer to Kautilya or his Arthashastra, so the answer is 1, 2, 3 and 4.
Explanation
★All four sources refer to Kautilya or his Arthashastra, so the answer is 1, 2, 3 and 4.
★Vishakhadatta's play Mudrarakshasa dramatises the political genius of Chanakya, that is Kautilya.
★Dandin's Dashakumaracharita refers to the tradition of Kautilya's statecraft.
★Somadeva's Kathasaritsagara also carries references to Kautilya and his work.
★Jain and Buddhist texts likewise preserve traditions about Chanakya and the Mauryan court.
★These cross-references help confirm Kautilya as a real historical figure and author.
★Kautilya, Chanakya and Vishnugupta are all names for the minister of Chandragupta Maurya.
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