Question

Which of the following correctly identifies the nine rasas in Indian classical dance and the number of classical dance forms recognized by the Sangeet Natak Akademi?

• A. There are nine classical dance forms and eight rasas including Veera and Shanta.
• B. The rasas include Shringara, Karuna, Raudra, but exclude Shanta; and ten dance forms are recognized.
• C. The nine rasas include Shringara, Haasya, Karuna, Raudra, Veera, Bhayaanaka, Beebhatsa, Adbhuta, and Shanta, and eight classical dance forms are officially recognized.
• D. Classical dance excludes emotions; instead, it emphasizes only rhythm and movement, with six forms officially recognized.

Answer 1

Answer:

C. The nine rasas include Shringara, Haasya, Karuna, Raudra, Veera, Bhayaanaka, Beebhatsa, Adbhuta, and Shanta, and eight classical dance forms are officially recognized.

The nine rasas or emotions depicted in dance are: Shringara Rasa – the essence of love and beauty. Haasya Rasa – the essence of humor and joy. Karuna Rasa – the essence of compassion and sorrow. Raudra Rasa – the essence of anger and fury. Veera Rasa – the essence of heroism and courage. Bhayaanaka Rasa – the essence of fear and terror. Beebhatsa Rasa – the essence of disgust and aversion. Adbhuta Rasa – the essence of wonder and amazement. Shanta Rasa – the essence of peace and tranquility. The Sangeet Natak Akademi recognizes eight classical dance forms of India.