'तृतीय रत्न' नाटकाचे लेखक कोण होते ?

The correct answer is Option A (Mahatma Phule).

Key Points:
• Social Reform Literature in Maharashtra:
• 'Tritiya Ratna' (The Third Eye / The Third Jewel) was written in 1855 by Mahatma Jyotirao Govindrao Phule.
• It is recognized as one of the earliest modern dramatic works in Marathi literature addressing social hierarchy and religious exploitation.
• The central theme of the play illustrates how the lack of education leaves the illiterate masses vulnerable to exploitation by ritualistic priesthood, and how 'Vidya' (knowledge/education) serves as the true 'Third Jewel' that bestows liberation and self-respect.
• Other major literary works by Mahatma Phule:
• 'ब्राह्मणांचे कसब' (1869)
• 'गुलामगिरी' (1873)
• 'शेतकऱ्याचा असूड' (1883)
• 'सार्वजनिक सत्यधर्म पुस्तक' (1891).
• Key Takeaway: Mahatma Jyotirao Phule wrote the pioneering social play 'Tritiya Ratna' in 1855.