Question

The Nayikas mentioned in the Natyashastra in accordance to the emotional relationship with their Nayakas are referred as :

• A. Dhiralalitaa
• B. Dhira prashantaa
• C. Ashtanayikaa
• D. Shatha

Hint:

\[ \text{Ashtanayika} = \text{Eight Emotional States of Heroines} \] These are important in: \[ \text{Indian Classical Dance and Drama} \]

Answer 1

The Correct Option is C

Concept:
In the Natyashastra and Indian classical aesthetics, the heroines (Nayikas) are classified according to their emotional states and relationship with their beloved (Nayaka). These classifications are collectively known as the Ashtanayika, meaning the “Eight Types of Heroines.”

Step 1: Understand the meaning of Ashtanayika.
The term: \[ \text{Ashta} = 8 \] and \[ \text{Nayika} = Heroine \] Thus: \[ \text{Ashtanayika} = \text{Eight types of heroines} \] These heroines represent different emotional conditions in love and relationships.

Step 2: Know the emotional classifications of Nayikas.
The eight Nayikas include:
• Vasakasajjita
• Virahotkanthita
• Svadhinabhartruka
• Kalahantarita
• Khandita
• Vipralabdha
• Proshitabhartruka
• Abhisarika These classifications are widely used in Indian classical dance and drama for expressive performance.

Step 3: Compare with the given options.
Among the given choices:
• Dhiralalitaa and Dhira prashantaa are character temperaments.
• Ashtanayikaa refers to the eight emotional heroine types.
• Shatha refers to a deceitful character type. Therefore, the correct answer is: \[ \boxed{\text{Ashtanayikaa}} \] Hence: \[ \boxed{\mathrm{(C)}} \]