Theory of Rasa: Its Impact and Relevance on L...

Theory of Rasa: Its Impact and Relevance on Literature

Author Name : Dr. Rakesh Kumar Pandey

ABSTRACT

Rasa’ is the essence of art and literature and it is, at the same time, the interconnecting link among all arts. Its significance has been acknowledged by all Sanskrit aestheticians in the appreciation of ‘Natya’ (drama) and ‘Kavya’ (poetry) and Bharat Muni is acknowledged to be the first exponent of the doctrine which he has systematically set forth in his celebrated treatise on Dramaturgy called the Natya Sastra. It has been propounded in the sixth and seventh chapters of Natyasastra and its greatest merit consists in the fact that it has erected its magnificent edifice on the solid foundation of the commonality of human feelings and emotions which refuse to be “time’s fool.” The concept of Rasa is the most significant contribution of the Indian mind to aesthetics. The present paper attempts to study Bharat Muni’s Rasa theory and its universal relevance in context of any literature in the world. 

Keywords: Sthayis ,Vyabhicharis, Natya , Kavya, Alambanas, Uddipana, Rati or Love,Soka or Grief, Krodha or Wrath, Utsaha or Energy, Bhaya or Fear, Hasa or Humour, Jugupasa or Disgust  , Vismaya or Wonder.