Study Guide · Chapter 2
Foundations: Classical Dance Theory
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- India's classical performing arts trace their theoretical foundation to the Natya Shastra, an ancient Sanskrit treatise on dramaturgy, dance, and music attributed to the sage Bharata Muni (dated variously between 200 BCE and 200 CE); it describes the Navarasa (nine emotional essences/sentiments: Shringara-love, Hasya-laughter, Karuna-sorrow, Raudra-anger, Veera-heroism, Bhayanaka-fear, Bibhatsa-disgust, Adbhuta-wonder, Shanta-peace) and forms the basis of Indian dramatic and dance aesthetics.
- Classical Indian dance is broadly organised around two complementary elements: Nritta (pure rhythmic movement, without narrative meaning) and Nritya/Abhinaya (expressive, narrative movement conveying meaning through mudras/hand gestures, facial expression, and body language).
- The Sangeet Natak Akademi, India's national academy for music, dance, and drama (established 1952), currently recognises eight classical dance forms of India: Bharatanatyam, Kathak, Kathakali, Kuchipudi, Odissi, Manipuri, Mohiniyattam, and Sattriya.
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