Book excerpt: Mudraraksasa Is A Historical Play Of The Nataka Type In Seven Acts Written By Vishakadatta In 6Th Century A.D., In Which Chanakya, The Minister Of King Chandragupta Of Pataliputra, Wins Over Rakshasa, The Minister Of The Nandas To The Side Of Chandragupta. It Is An Unique Play In Many Respects. The Play Is Based On A Political Theme And It Bears Testimony To The Consummate Skill Of Visakhadatta As A Dramatist. It Does Not Present Any Of The Recognized Dramatic Sentiments (Rasa), But Introduces A New, Hitherto Unrecognized Sentiment Of Intense Rivalry Between Two Sharp-Witted Ministers Dedicated To The Service Of Their Respective Kings.