Question

What is the purpose of Rasa according to Bharata?

• A. To evoke aesthetic delight and spiritual elevation
• B. To teach philosophy
• C. To promote societal laws
• D. Entertainment only

Answer 1

Answer:

A. To evoke aesthetic delight and spiritual elevation

• Rasa theory is an ancient Indian aesthetic framework developed in the context of classical Sanskrit drama, poetry, and performance arts.

• It is elaborated primarily in Bharata Muni's Natya Shastra, an ancient treatise on dramaturgy and performance.

• The word Rasa translates to "essence," "flavor," or "emotion" and represents the aesthetic experience evoked in the audience when engaging with art.

• Bharata Muni argued that a successful work of art must create a particular mood or emotion ( Rasa)in the audience, and that this is achieved through the combined efforts of the performer, the script, the stagecraft, and the audience.