Question

In which of the following dance forms are four aspects of abhinaya 'angika', 'aharya', 'vachika', 'satvika' and the 'nritta', 'nritya' and 'natya' combined perfectly?

• A. Kathak
• B. Manipuri
• C. Bharatanatyam
• D. Kathakali

Answer 1

Answer:

D. Kathakali

• Angika Abhinaya: This refers to the representation through bodily movements, gestures, and postures. In Kathakali, this is extremely elaborate, with specific hand gestures (mudras), facial expressions (mukhabhinaya), and body movements conveying a wide range of emotions and actions. • Aharya Abhinaya: This pertains to the external or decorative aspect, including costumes, makeup, and stage properties. Kathakali is famous for its elaborate and vibrant costumes and elaborate facial makeup (pacha, kathi, thadi, kari, minukku) which distinctly characterize the nature of the performers. • Vachika Abhinaya: This involves spoken or vocal elements. In Kathakali, the actors do not speak; instead, the story is narrated by a vocalist (ponnani) and a chorus, accompanied by musicians playing instruments like chenda, maddalam, and ilathalam. • Sattvika Abhinaya: This represents the emotional state and inner feelings of the characters. It is conveyed through subtle changes in the eyes, eyebrows, and facial muscles, often requiring immense control and emotional depth from the performer.