Dasarupaka (critical study)
by Anuru Ranjan Mishra | 2015 | 106,293 words
This page relates ‘Mahendravarman—Author of the drama (Mattavilasa-Prahasana)’ of the English study of the Dasarupaka of Dhananjaya: an important work on Hindu dramaturgy (Natya-shastra) from the tenth century dealing with the ten divisions of Sanskrit drama (nata), describing their technical aspects and essential dramaturgical principals. These ten types of drama are categorised based on the plot (vastu), hero (neta) and sentiment (rasa)
Part 1 - Mahendravarman—Author of the drama (Mattavilāsa-Prahasana)
The author of the Mattavilāsaprahasana is king Mahendravarman. He was the Pallava king ruling Kāñcī, in 610 century A.D., defeating brave rivals like Bāṇas. He succeeded his father Siṃhaviṣṇu and ruled the southern India for many years.
He was a gifted poet. His love for literature was the reason for composing the Prahasana, even with hectic political routine. His excellent knowledge of poetry and command over Sanskrit and Prakrit were added advantages for composing the Prahasana. He was known for his work, Mattavilāsa Prahasana in the history of Sanskrit literature.