The Indira Gandhi National Centre for the Arts (IGNCA) recently organized an academic program titled ‘Natyashastra – Synthesis of Theory and Praxis’ during the 20th session of UNESCO’s Intergovernmental Committee for the Safeguarding of Intangible Cultural Heritage at the iconic Red Fort in Delhi.
Natyashastra is an ancient Sanskrit treatise on performing arts, authored by the sage Bharata Muni. The title combines two Sanskrit words: 'Natya,' which refers to the technique of dance and drama, and 'Shastra,' meaning science. It is believed to have been composed between the second century BCE and the second century CE, making it the earliest known treatise on performative arts in South Asia.
The primary importance of Natyashastra lies in its justification of Indian drama as a vehicle for religious enlightenment. The text comprises around 36,000 verses that detail various aspects of performance, including drama (natya), performance (abhinaya), music (sangita), emotions (bhava), and aesthetic experience (rasa).
One of Natyashastra's most profound contributions is the articulation of the concept of Rasa, which represents the essential emotional essence at the heart of any great work of art. Bharata Muni identified eight primary Rasas: Shringara (love), Hasya (humor), Karuna (compassion), Raudra (anger), Veera (heroism), Bhayanaka (fear), Bibhatsa (disgust), and Adbhuta (wonder).
Through the skilled deployment of bhava (emotional expression), performers can evoke these sentiments in their audience, thereby enhancing the overall experience of the art form. In recognition of its global cultural significance, UNESCO has added Natyashastra to its Memory of the World Register.
The IGNCA was established as an autonomous body by the Government of India under the Ministry of Culture. Its mandate includes documenting, preserving, conserving, and disseminating Indian arts and cultural heritage while training competent professionals to work in this specialized field.
The IGNCA comprises six functional units:
Q1. What is Natyashastra?
Answer: Natyashastra is an ancient Sanskrit treatise on performing arts, composed by Bharata Muni. It outlines the theory and practice of dance, drama, music, and emotional expression in Indian culture.
Q2. Why is Natyashastra significant?
Answer: Natyashastra is significant because it provides a comprehensive framework for understanding Indian performing arts and has been recognized by UNESCO for its cultural importance.
Q3. Who was Bharata Muni?
Answer: Bharata Muni was an ancient Indian sage credited with authoring the Natyashastra, which is foundational to the study of Indian performing arts.
Q4. What are the eight Rasas?
Answer: The eight Rasas identified in Natyashastra are Shringara, Hasya, Karuna, Raudra, Veera, Bhayanaka, Bibhatsa, and Adbhuta, each representing different emotions in art.
Q5. What is the role of IGNCA?
Answer: The IGNCA aims to document, preserve, and promote Indian arts and culture, providing training and resources for cultural professionals in various fields.
Question 1: What is the main focus of Natyashastra?
A) Historical events
B) Performing arts
C) Literature
D) Philosophy
Correct Answer: B
Question 2: Who is recognized as the author of Natyashastra?
A) Kalidasa
B) Bharata Muni
C) Vyasa
D) Tansen
Correct Answer: B
Question 3: How many primary Rasas are identified in Natyashastra?
A) Six
B) Eight
C) Ten
D) Twelve
Correct Answer: B
Question 4: Which organization recognized Natyashastra as part of its Memory of the World Register?
A) UNESCO
B) WHO
C) IMF
D) WTO
Correct Answer: A
Question 5: What is the role of the IGNCA?
A) Promote sports
B) Preserve cultural heritage
C) Develop technology
D) Conduct scientific research
Correct Answer: B
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