Natya Shastra

Natya Shastra

Sitara Thobani Odissi classical dance mudra India (16)

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Natya Shastra is an ancient Indian treatise on the performing arts, encompassing theatre, dance, and music. It is attributed to the sage Bharata Muni, and its first complete compilation is dated between 200 BCE and 200 CE, though it may have been written over several centuries. This seminal work is foundational to Indian classical dance and Indian classical music, as well as the Hindu performance arts tradition.

Origins and History

The origins of the Natya Shastra are shrouded in myth and history. According to Hindu tradition, it was created by Brahma at the request of the gods, who were seeking a form of entertainment that could be enjoyed by both the common people and the divine beings. Brahma took elements from the four Vedas to create the fifth Veda, the Natyaveda, which was then taught to Bharata Muni, who is said to have compiled this knowledge into the Natya Shastra.

Content

The Natya Shastra is an extensive text, comprising around 6,000 verses divided into 36 chapters. Its scope is vast, covering every aspect of the performing arts, from theatre construction, stage design, makeup, and costumes to the finer aspects of performance including gestures, emotions, and music. It lays down detailed rules for drama, and its principles have been influential in the development of Indian classical dance forms such as Bharatanatyam, Kathak, Kuchipudi, Odissi, Manipuri, Kathakali, and Mohiniyattam.

Theatre Architecture

One of the chapters of the Natya Shastra deals with the construction of the theatre, which is considered a sacred space. It describes the theatre layout, including the stage, audience seating, and the green room. The text specifies dimensions and materials for theatre construction, emphasizing the importance of a harmonious environment for the performance.

Acting and Dance

The treatise details a sophisticated system of Abhinaya (acting), which includes Angika Abhinaya (body movements), Vachika Abhinaya (speech), Aharya Abhinaya (costume and makeup), and Sattvika Abhinaya (emotional expression). It also categorizes and explains the use of gestures, postures, and facial expressions to convey emotions and tell stories.

Music and Rhythm

The Natya Shastra also delves into music, defining scales, modes, and the principles of musical composition and performance. It discusses the importance of rhythm and tempo, and the integration of music with dance and drama to create a cohesive performance.

Influence

The influence of the Natya Shastra on the arts in India cannot be overstated. It is considered the foundational text for classical Indian dance and theatre, and its principles are still taught and practiced today. The work has also had a significant impact on Indian literature, sculpture, and painting, as its guidelines on aesthetics and performance have been applied to other art forms.

Legacy

The Natya Shastra remains a subject of study and admiration in the fields of performing arts, literature, and cultural history. Its comprehensive approach to theatre and its detailed analysis of performance techniques have made it a pivotal work in understanding the rich traditions of Indian classical arts.