Question

How many Rasas are recognized in Drama (Natya) according to classical tradition?

• A. Eight (Ashtau)
• B. Nine (Nava)
• C. Ten (Dasha)
• D. Six (Shat)

Hint:

"Ashtau Natye, Nava Kavye." (8 in Drama, 9 in Poetry). If a question mentions Bharata Muni or 'Natya', lean towards 8. If it mentions 'Kavya' or general literature, the answer is usually 9.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is A

Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
The number of 'Rasas' is a fundamental topic in Indian aesthetics. While we commonly hear about 'Nava-rasa' (Nine Rasas), there is a historical and technical distinction between the count in 'Kavya' (Poetry) and 'Natya' (Drama/Theatre). This distinction traces back to the founding text of Indian performance arts, the 'Natyashastra'.

Step 3: Detailed Explanation:
According to the legendary Bharata Muni in his 'Natyashastra', there are exactly Eight (Ashtau) Rasas recognized in the context of drama.

The reason for this count is practical. Drama requires 'Abhinaya' (action and physical enactment). The eight Rasas listed by Bharata are:
1. Shringara (Erotic), 2. Hasya (Comic), 3. Karuna (Pathetic), 4. Raudra (Furious), 5. Vira (Heroic), 6. Bhayanaka (Terrible), 7. Bibhatsa (Odious), and 8. Adbhuta (Marvelous).

The debate arises regarding the ninth Rasa, Shanta (Peaceful). While scholars like Anandavardhana and Mammata argued that Shanta is the pinnacle of poetry, many drama critics (including the early interpretation of Bharata) felt it could not be shown on stage.

Why Shanta was excluded from Natya:
1. Lack of Action: Shanta Rasa represents 'Shama' (total tranquility), which is the absence of worldly movement. Drama, by definition, is 'Dhrishya' (visible action).
2. Enactment: It is extremely difficult for an actor to 'act' total detachment in a way that generates aesthetic relish for an audience in a theatre setting.

The famous line from the Natyashastra tradition is: "Ashtau Natye Rasah Smritah" (Eight Rasas are prescribed for Drama). Although later commentators like Abhinavagupta argued for nine Rasas in both poetry and drama, the classical question specifically regarding 'Natya' usually looks for the answer 'Eight'.

Step 4: Final Answer:
In the context of classical Drama (Natya), eight Rasas are recognized. Thus, Option (A) is correct.