Correct Option
(B) Bhavabhuti, Hastimalla, and Kshemeshvara were prominent figures in ancient Indian literature, specifically celebrated as playwrights who enriched classical Sanskrit drama.
- Bhavabhuti (c. 8th century CE) is one of the most distinguished Sanskrit playwrights. He is renowned for his three major works: Malatimadhava, Mahaviracharita, and Uttararamacharita, which are noted for their poetic beauty and dramatic depth.
- Hastimalla (c. 13th century CE) was a notable Jain poet and playwright who wrote in Sanskrit. His works, such as Maithili Kalyana, contributed significantly to the tradition of classical Sanskrit drama.
- Kshemeshvara (c. 10th century CE) was another significant Sanskrit dramatist, known for plays like Chandakaushika, which is a historical drama.
Incorrect Options
- (A) Jain monks: While Hastimalla was a Jain, his primary fame and historical recognition stem from his literary contributions as a playwright, not solely as a monk. Bhavabhuti and Kshemeshvara were not Jain monks.
- (C) Temple architects: These individuals are not recorded in historical sources as being primarily involved in temple architecture. Their expertise lay in literary composition and dramatic arts.
- (D) Philosophers: Although their dramatic works may incorporate philosophical themes and discussions, their principal professional identity and historical contribution were as dramatists and poets, rather than as founders or proponents of specific philosophical schools.