| Ph. D on ‘Aharya Abhinaya – a study’ from the University of Mumbai through the Anantacharya Indological Research Institute, affiliated to it. Natya Sastra is the earliest extent treatise on Indian Dramatics ascribed to Bharata Muni and may be dated to about 1000 BC.
Abhinaya according to Natya Sastra, is the art of communication classified as Angika (through physical movements), Vacika (through words), Satavika (through emotions) & Aharya (through make-up & decor). Aharya Abhinaya represents all the external elements of communication such as make-up, dress, jewellery, accessories and stage décor, sets, curtains and even lighting. Though Chapter 21 of the Natya Sastra is entirely dedicated to Aharya Abhinaya dealing with making of props, masks, accessories, stage décor, ornaments, dress, pigments for make-up, etc.the reference is met with throughout the Natya Sastra.
This study not only elaborates on all the above aspects, but focuses on the emotional impact of Aharya Abhinaya both immediate and sustaining. That is why, Abhinavaguptacarya, the 11th century Kashmirian commentator of the Natya Sastra, in his Abhinavabharati says that Aharya Abhinaya is like the firm wall or canvas on which the other abhinayas are portrayed. |
