With reference to the history of ancient India, Bhavabhuti, Hastimalla and Kshemeshvara were famous

The correct answer is playwrights.

Explanation and Historical Context:

1. Bhavabhuti:
Bhavabhuti was an 8th-century scholar and dramatic poet of India. He was the court poet of King Yashovarman of Kannauj. He wrote renowned Sanskrit plays such as Mahaviracharita (depicting the early life of Rama), Malatimadhava (a romantic drama), and Uttararamacharita (depicting the later life of Rama).

2. Hastimalla:
Hastimalla was a famous 13th-century Kannada and Sanskrit poet and playwright in the Hoysala Empire. He wrote several prominent plays based on Jain themes, including Vikrantakaurava and Maithilibhanga.

3. Kshemeshvara:
Kshemeshvara was an 11th-century Sanskrit playwright who lived during the reign of King Mahipala of the Gurjara-Pratihara dynasty (or Bengal/Kannauj region depending on historians). He is best known for his play Chandakausika, which tells the story of King Harishchandra.

Therefore, Bhavabhuti, Hastimalla, and Kshemeshvara were all prominent ancient Indian playwrights (dramatists).