1. Who first suggested the game of dicing and why?
The game of dice was suggested by Shakuni, Duryodhana’s maternal uncle. He knew
Yudhishthira loved gambling and believed that what could not be won in battle could be
achieved through dice, using deceit and trickery.
2. How did Manthara poison Kaikeyi’s mind against Rama?
Manthara filled Kaikeyi’s mind with fear and jealousy by saying Rama’s coronation would
disgrace her and endanger Bharata. She convinced Kaikeyi that Kausalya would gain power,
leading Kaikeyi to demand Rama’s exile.
3. What are the five deadly sins mentioned in Mrichchhakatikam?
The five deadly sins mentioned are killing a Brahman, drinking wine meant for Brahmans,
stealing gold, committing adultery with one’s teacher’s wife, and associating with people who
commit these serious sins.
4. How did Charudatta become poor?
Charudatta became poor because of his extreme generosity. Though once a wealthy merchant,
he gave away his riches to friends and the needy. His charity left him penniless but showed his
noble and virtuous character.
5. Who found the ring and where was it found in Abhijnanashakuntalam?
The ring was found by a fisherman named Kumbhilaka. He discovered it inside the belly of a fish
caught from the river, where Shakuntala had accidentally dropped it while crossing the water.
6. Who supported Draupadi during the dicing scene, and who silenced him?
Vikarna, one of the Kaurava princes, supported Draupadi and questioned the injustice done to
her. His argument was silenced by Karna, who mocked him and stopped him from continuing his
protest.
7. What was Durvasa’s curse and why did he curse Shakuntala?
Durvasa cursed Shakuntala because she failed to welcome him properly, being lost in thoughts
of Dushyanta. He cursed that the king would forget her, but later softened it, saying memory
would return on seeing a token.
8. Identify the principal Bhava and Rasa of Abhijnanashakuntalam.
The principal Rasa of the play is Sringara, or love, shown through union and separation. The
main Bhava is Rati, or love, which moves through sorrow during separation and returns to joy at
reunion.