Public administration is depicted in the drama Abhijnanasakuntalam composed by the great poet Kalidas

Abstract

The litterateur spontaneously clarifies his social concepts in his literature - be it political, economic, cultural, geographical, administrative in any way. Society is also the basis or the motivating factor for the creativity of a creator. Mahakavi Kalidas is a creator associated with public relations. In his creations, whether it is an epic, a short poem or a play, proper light has been thrown on each and every aspect of the contemporary society. Malavikagnimitram, Vikramorvashiyam and Abhigyanshakuntalam are considered to be his three popular theatrical creations. According to the story of the play Abhigyanshakuntalam by Mahakavi Kalidas, the administrative system of King Dushyant was very strong. It was a monarchical system. Dushyant was a patriot and an emperor ready to protect the people. He used to follow his subjects like his children. During his time, all the seven parts of the state efficiently followed their respective responsibilities. Although the king was supreme, yet the subjects had the right to question him. There was a transparent judicial system. The king was the supreme authority. The punishment was very harsh. According to the nature of the crime, it was punished with death penalty, fine, torture etc. The state had the right over the property of the childless. Under the leadership of the commander, all parts of the army used to practice regularly. One-sixth of the income was taken as tax from the subjects. Ascetics and religious places were tax free. Some administrative officers were addicted to alcohol and passion. Thus the structure of the society described in Abhijnanasakuntalam was based on the ancient polity which was based on religious norms.