Question

What is the function of Vyanjana in Dhwani Theory?

• A. It is a poetic device
• B. It is a type of rasa
• C. It refers to suggestive meaning
• D. It is the literal meaning of words

Answer 1

Answer:

C. It refers to suggestive meaning

Vyanjana in Dhwani Theory

• In Anandavardhana’s Dhwani Theory, Vyanjana refers to the suggestive power of language.

• It is the process by which words convey a meaning beyond their direct (literal) sense, leading to deeper emotional and aesthetic effects.

• Through Vyanjana, poetry achieves its highest form by subtly evoking rasa (emotions) in the reader or listener.

Three Levels of Meaning in Dhwani Theory:

1. Abhidha – Literal (denotative) meaning

2. Lakshana – Indicative (secondary) meaning

3. Vyanjana – Suggestive (implied) meaning (most important in poetry)

According to Anandavardhana, the true beauty of poetry lies in Vyanjana, where the words suggest something deeper than their surface meaning.