UPSC Prelims 1997 · General Studies
Question 94: History and Culture
Match List I with List II and select the correct answer by using the codes given below the lists: List I (Author) I. Varahamihira II. Visakhadatta III. Sudraka IV. Bilhana List II (Text) A) Prabandha Chintamani B) Mrchchhakatikam C) Brhat-Samhita D) Devi Chandraguptam E) Vikramankadevacharita Codes:
AnswerThe answer is (b).
Varahamihira wrote the Brhat-Samhita, an encyclopaedic work on astronomy, astrology, architecture and more. Visakhadatta wrote the Devichandraguptam (and the Mudrarakshasa). Sudraka is traditionally credited with the Mrichchhakatikam (The Little Clay Cart). Bilhana wrote the Vikramankadevacharita about the Chalukya king Vikramaditya VI. The Prabandha Chintamani, the odd one left over, is by Merutunga.
- I. I-C: Varahamihira wrote the Brhat-Samhita.
- II. II-D: Visakhadatta wrote the Devichandraguptam.
- III. III-B: Sudraka is credited with the Mrichchhakatikam.
- IV. IV-E: Bilhana wrote the Vikramankadevacharita.
Why each option is right or wrong
- (a) I-C and II-D are right, but III-E and IV-B swap Sudraka and Bilhana.
- (b) Right: Varahamihira-Brhat-Samhita, Visakhadatta-Devichandraguptam, Sudraka-Mrichchhakatikam, Bilhana-Vikramankadevacharita.
- (c) All four pairs are wrong, such as Varahamihira against the Vikramankadevacharita.
- (d) All four pairs are wrong, such as Varahamihira against the Prabandha Chintamani.
Explanation: written by UPSC Grade, not by UPSC.
Source: UPSC, Civil Services (Preliminary) Examination 1997, General Studies. UPSC's own paper isn't online; the words are from a published compilation. The paper on upsc.gov.in.