Pratimanatakam Of Bhasa (Edition 1995)

Pratimanatakam" is a play attributed to the ancient Indian playwright Bhasa. He is one of the earliest and most renowned dramatists in Sanskrit literature, though not much is known about his life. His works are regarded as important examples of classical Sanskrit drama.

"Pratimanatakam" is a prakarana (a type of play that deals with human situations rather than mythological stories), and it is characterized by a blend of action, emotion, and sophisticated use of language.

Overview of Pratimanatakam:

• Theme: The play revolves around the theme of dramatic deception, with a strong focus on mistaken identities, misunderstandings, and the moral dilemmas arising from these situations.
• Plot: The plot typically centers on an incident where characters are involved in misinterpretations of their own roles and intentions. It deals with the concept of false appearances and the truth that lies underneath them.
• Characters: Like many of Bhasa’s works, "Pratimanatakam" features a variety of well-developed characters, including kings, queens, and scholars. The dialogue is sharp, revealing the complexities of human nature.