Question

Identify the theories of Rasa realization (Rasa-nishpatti) from the following:
A. Utpattivada
B. Bhaktivada
C. Anumitivada
D. Abhavavada
E. Abhivyaktivada
Choose the correct answer from the options given below:

• A. Only A, B and C
• B. Only B, C and D
• C. Only A, C and E
• D. Only C, D and E

Hint:

Associate authors with theories:
Lollata $\rightarrow$ Utpatti (Production)
Shankuka $\rightarrow$ Anumiti (Inference)
Bhattanayaka $\rightarrow$ Bhukti (Enjoyment)
Abhinavagupta $\rightarrow$ Abhivyakti (Manifestation)
Memorize this list as it is a frequent target for matching questions.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is C

Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
Bharata Muni provided the 'Rasa-sutra' in the Natyashastra: "Vibhāvānubhāva-vyabhicāri-samyogād-rasa-niṣpattiḥ". The interpretation of the word 'Nishpatti' (realization) and 'Samyoga' (combination) led to four major scholarly theories in Sanskrit poetics. These scholars—Lollata, Shankuka, Bhattanayaka, and Abhinavagupta—explained how Rasa is experienced by the spectator.

Step 3: Detailed Explanation:
The four major theories are:

1. A. Utpattivada (Theory of Generation): Proposed by Bhatta Lollata. He believed Rasa is produced (generated) primarily in the original character (Rama, etc.) and superimposed on the actor.

2. C. Anumitivada (Theory of Inference): Proposed by Shri Shankuka. He used the 'Chitra-turaga-nyaya' (analogy of a painted horse) to argue that the spectator 'infers' the Rasa in the actor based on their skilled portrayal.

3. B. Bhuktivada/Bhaktivada (Theory of Enjoyment): Proposed by Bhatta Nayaka. He introduced the concept of 'Sadharanikarana' (universalization) and said that the spectator 'enjoys' or 'rehashes' the emotion through the functions of Bhavakatva and Bhojakatva.

4. E. Abhivyaktivada (Theory of Manifestation): Proposed by Abhinavagupta. This is the most refined and accepted theory. He argued that Rasa is already latent in the heart of the connoisseur (Sahridaya) in the form of 'Sthayi-bhavas' and is 'manifested' by the poem or play.

5. D. Abhavavada: This is a school of thought that denies the existence of 'Dhvani' (suggestion), mentioned by Anandavardhana. It is not a theory of Rasa-nishpatti.

While A, B, C, and E are all valid, if we must choose between the provided options, A, C, and E represent the most distinct developmental stages often tested. (Note: Most Sahitya exams consider A, B, C, E as the set). Given the specific MCQ options, A, C, and E is the intended combination.

Step 4: Final Answer:
A, C, and E are major theories of Rasa-nishpatti. Thus, Option (C) is the correct answer.