The so-called sanskrit plays

Summary

The so-called "Sanskrit plays" of ancient Indian literature are, in fact, linguistic blends of Sanskrit and Prakrit, with Prakrit often occupying a greater proportion both in quantity and in dramatic function. While these plays are traditionally labeled "Sanskrit dramas"—largely due to their Sanskrit authorship and the dominance of Sanskrit in early scholarly attention—detailed analysis reveals that Prakrit frequently surpasses Sanskrit in actual speech volume and in its role in driving dramatic action. For instance, in plays like Mṛcchakaṭikam and Svapnavasavadattam, Prakrit accounts for over half of the dialogue. Moreover, prose, which forms the basis of dramatic movement, is predominantly in Prakrit, while Sanskrit is often reserved for verse used by elite characters, typically expressing emotion or maxims rather than progressing the plot. Scholars argue that this imbalance challenges the appropriateness of categorizing these as purely Sanskrit plays, especially when Prakrit sections are routinely ignored or replaced in modern editions and curricula. It is thus proposed that ancient Indian dramas be more accurately studied as bilingual works, and Prakrit should be rightfully acknowledged and incorporated into academic courses alongside Sanskrit and other classical languages like Pāli and Apabhraṁśa.