15 Topics.
0 of 6 Concepts Done
What to Study: How does Bharata Muni define Natya? Remember the Sanskrit phrase and its meaning, and the four arts that Natya brings together. Understand why this definition covers everything from pure dance to a full theatre production.
What to Study: Why did the gods ask Brahma for a fifth Veda, and who was it meant for? Remember which of the four Vedas gave words, song, gesture and rasa to Natya.
What to Study: What does each term mean literally? Learn how the two modes differ in speech, costume and gesture: one is realistic, the other uses symbolic gesture, elevated speech and codified movement.
What to Study: Which mode do all classical Indian dance-drama forms follow? Understand its conventions (mudra, make-up, rhythmic speech, stage properties). Also remember which mode became dominant in modern Indian theatre, and what influence brought that change.
What to Study: How do the two main dramatic forms differ in their hero and theme? Remember the best-known play and playwright for each form.
What to Study: Know what marks each of these forms, such as monologue, battle theme, farce or mixed plot. Are Anka and Utsrishtikanka two forms or one? Prahasana has one well-known example; remember the play and its royal author.