Bhavabhuti, Hastimalla, and Kshemeshvara were renowned playwrights in ancient and early medieval India.

Bhavabhuti: An 8th-century scholar and playwright in the court of King Yashovarman of Kannauj. He is famous for his Sanskrit plays Malatimadhava, Mahaviracharita, and Uttararamacharita.

Hastimalla: A 13th-century Jain playwright who lived during the Hoysala period. He is known for his Sanskrit plays such as Vikrantakaurava, Maithilikalyana, and Anjanapavananjaya.

Kshemeshvara: A 10th-century playwright who served in the court of King Mahipala of the Pala dynasty. His notable works include the plays Chandakaushika and Naishadhananda.