Brihatkathamanjari was written by:
Last updated Jun 24, 2026
Correct Answer:
Option D —
Kshemendra
Context and BackgroundKshemendra:
He was a renowned 11th-century Sanskrit poet and polymath from Kashmir.
The Work: Brihatkathamanjari is a Sanskrit verse summary of the now-lost Brihatkatha (The Great Narrative). It contains many famous folk tales and legends of ancient India.
The Original Source: The Brihatkatha was originally written by Gunadhya (Option A) in a language called Paishachi. Kshemendra's work is one of the two most famous surviving Sanskrit versions of it (the other being Somadeva's Kathasaritsagara).
Quick Facts on Other Options:
Gunadhya: The original author of the Brihatkatha (the source material for Kshemendra).
Harisena: A 4th-century poet and minister in the court of Samudragupta; famous for composing the Prayag Prashasti (Allahabad Pillar Inscription).
Lal Ded: A 14th-century Kashmiri mystic poet and saint, known for her "Vakhs" (spiritual verses).
Answer verified by Quintessence Classes faculty — Karan Nagar, Srinagar.
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