Visakhadatta was Sanskrit author of Mudra -Rakshasa i.e. `Rakshasa`s Signet Ring`. The text of this suggests that he came of noble or even royal lineage. His dates are the subject of much speculation on the basis of the concluding verse in the luminary benediction, which refers to a king named Chandragupta as his patron. But other readings of the name include Vantivarma, Danrivarma, and Rantivarma. Therefore, in the absence of certain identification of the king, it is difficult to ascertain Visakhadatta`s period. Probably he belonged to the Gupta age in fifth century.

Mudra-Rakshasa is a nataka in seven acts, on the reconciliation of Rakshasa. He was the minister of Nanda, the late king of Pataliputra, with Chanakya or Kautilya. He was Brahman and minister of Emperor Chandragupta Maurya, who overthrew Nanda. The entire plot revolves round Rakshasa`s ring found by Chanakya`s spy at the door of Chandanadasa. Chandanadasa was a friend of Rakshasa. Chanakya uses this seal to forge letters by Rakshasa, in order to create suspicion in the mind of King Malayaketu with whom Rakshasa has taken refuge. After Malayaketu dismisses him, Rakshasa comes to know that Kautilya is about to put Chandanadasa to death. He surrenders himself to effect Chandanadasa`s release. Ultimately, Kautilya makes Rakshasa the minister, abandoning his own post in the true spirit of a learned Brahman detached from all desire for office and power.

It is a unique text in Sanskrit theatre, with a plot wholly political and historical in nature. This was an excellent example of a war of espionage and counter-espionage fought by two ministers as well. The language is vigorous, and Visakhadatta creates powerful dramatic characterization. Another special feature is that it is difficult to determine the real hero i.e. Kautilya, Rakshasa, or Chandragupta. Thus the play defies the norms of a nataka and of rasa experience. It also provides a literary record of some of the most important events in Indian history.

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