Natyasastra - Ascribed To Bharta Muni | by Manmohan Ghosh/ Chowkhamba Sanskrit Series

Natyasastra - Ascribed To Bharata Muni is a seminal Sanskrit text attributed to Bharata Muni, who is considered the father of Indian dramatic arts. This book, translated and compiled by Manmohan Ghosh, is part of the prestigious Chowkhamba Sanskrit Series, a collection known for preserving and making classical Sanskrit literature accessible to scholars and enthusiasts worldwide.

The Natyasastra is one of the most significant works in the realm of Indian theatre, dance, and performance arts. It is often referred to as the 'fifth Veda', because it blends music, drama, dance, and philosophy, establishing a comprehensive framework for artistic expression. The text discusses the theory and practice of drama and theatre, encompassing a wide range of topics such as stagecraft, the elements of performance, gestures, and the psychology of characters. It also details the various rasas (emotions) that form the foundation of dramatic performance, and how these are to be conveyed through abhinaya (expression), natya (drama), nritta (dance), and sangeet (music).

This work is divided into several sections, with a focus on the technicalities of performance art. It covers topics like ragas (musical scales), nritya (dance forms), and abhinaya (facial expressions and gestures), as well as the roles of the actors, dancers, and musicians in creating a harmonious performance. The Natyasastra is a critical guide for understanding the principles of Indian classical performance, with far-reaching influence on the development of both classical theatre and dance traditions in India.

In Manmohan Ghosh’s translation, the Natyasastra becomes more accessible to modern readers, offering insights into ancient Indian art forms that continue to shape the performance arts today. The Chowkhamba Sanskrit Series ensures that this classic text is not only preserved but also made understandable for both scholars and practitioners. This book is invaluable for anyone interested in the theory of performing arts, Indian culture, and the philosophy of expression in classical arts.