Natya Shastra
Introduction
The Natya Shastra is an ancient Indian treatise on the performing arts, encompassing theatre, dance, and music. Attributed to the sage Bharata Muni, it is believed to have been composed between 200 BCE and 200 CE. The text is considered the foundation of classical Indian dance and theatre, providing a comprehensive guide to various aspects of performance, including stage design, music, dance, makeup, and dramatic composition.
Historical Context
The Natya Shastra is one of the earliest and most comprehensive texts on the performing arts. It is part of the broader tradition of Sanskrit literature and is closely associated with the Vedas, the oldest sacred texts of Hinduism. The treatise is believed to have been composed during the Gupta Empire, a period known for its cultural and artistic achievements. The Natya Shastra has influenced a wide range of classical Indian dance forms, including Bharatanatyam, Kathak, and Odissi.
Structure and Content
The Natya Shastra is divided into 36 chapters, covering various aspects of performing arts. These chapters include detailed discussions on the following topics:
Rasa Theory
The concept of Rasa (aesthetic flavor) is central to the Natya Shastra. Rasa refers to the emotional experience evoked in the audience through a performance. Bharata Muni identifies eight primary rasas: Shringara (love), Hasya (laughter), Karuna (compassion), Raudra (anger), Veera (heroism), Bhayanaka (fear), Bibhatsa (disgust), and Adbhuta (wonder). A ninth rasa, Shanta (peace), was later added by scholars.
Dance and Movement
The Natya Shastra provides detailed guidelines on various dance forms, including Nritta (pure dance), Nritya (expressive dance), and Natya (dramatic dance). It describes different types of movements, such as Angika (body movements), Vachika (verbal expression), Aharya (costume and makeup), and Sattvika (emotional expression).
Music and Instruments
The treatise also delves into the musical aspects of performance, discussing various Ragas (melodic frameworks) and Talas (rhythmic cycles). It provides instructions on the use of different musical instruments, such as the Veena (a stringed instrument), Mridangam (a percussion instrument), and Flute.
Stage Design and Production
The Natya Shastra offers comprehensive guidelines on stage design, including the layout of the stage, types of stages, and the use of props and scenery. It also covers aspects of production, such as lighting, sound, and special effects.
Dramatic Composition
The text provides detailed instructions on the composition of plays, including the structure of a play, character development, and dialogue. It categorizes plays into different types, such as Nataka (heroic drama), Prakarana (social drama), and Bhāṇa (monologue).
Influence and Legacy
The Natya Shastra has had a profound influence on the development of classical Indian dance and theatre. Its principles and guidelines have been adopted and adapted by various dance forms and theatrical traditions across India. The treatise has also influenced other forms of art, such as Sculpture and Painting, which often depict scenes from classical performances.
Modern Relevance
Despite being an ancient text, the Natya Shastra continues to be relevant in contemporary times. It serves as a valuable resource for scholars, performers, and enthusiasts of classical Indian dance and theatre. The principles outlined in the text are still taught in various dance and theatre schools across India and around the world.