Question

Who famously stated "There is only one Rasa, and that is Karuna" (Eko rasah karuna eva)?

• A. Kalidasa
• B. Bhavabhuti
• C. Magha
• D. Bharavi

Hint:

Remember the unique association: Bhavabhuti is the champion of Karuna Rasa. If you see questions about a single, fundamental Rasa being Karuna, the answer will almost certainly be Bhavabhuti. Also, recall this is from 'Uttararamacharita', his most poignant play.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is B

Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
Rasa theory is the cornerstone of Indian aesthetics, explaining how emotional experiences are evoked and savored in art. While Bharata Muni initially posited eight Rasas, and later scholars expanded the list to nine, there have been profound philosophical debates regarding the ultimate nature and number of Rasas. One prominent playwright proposed a revolutionary monistic view, asserting that all other emotions are merely manifestations of a single, overarching Rasa. This question asks to identify the author of this famous and distinctive statement.

Step 3: Detailed Explanation:
The celebrated statement, "Eko rasah karuna eva" (There is only one Rasa, and that is Karuna), was famously made by the illustrious Sanskrit playwright Bhavabhuti. This declaration is found in the third act of his masterpiece, 'Uttararamacharita' (The Later History of Rama), a play renowned for its intense emotional depth and portrayal of pathos.

The full verse, expressing Bhavabhuti's unique Rasa philosophy, is:
\[ \text{Eko rasa\d{h} karu\d{n}a eva nimitta-bhed\bar{a}d-} \] \[ \text{bhinna\d{h} p\d{r}thag-iva vivartate vivart\bar{a}n |} \] \[ \text{\bar{A}varta-budbuda-tara\d{n}gamay\bar{a}n vik\bar{a}r\bar{a}n} \] \[ \text{yath\bar{a} jala\d{m} samastam-iti tat-samavaya eva ||} \]
Translation: "There is but one sentiment, Compassion (Karuna), which, due to different causes (nimitta-bhed\bar{a}t), appears changed into different forms, just as water assumes different states such as eddies, bubbles, and waves, yet it is all just water."

Bhavabhuti argues that 'Karuna' (pathos, compassion, sorrow) is the fundamental human emotion from which all other Rasas derive. He compares this to water, which, though one substance, manifests in various forms like waves, bubbles, and eddies. Similarly, through different 'Vibhavas' (determinants), the underlying Karuna takes on the appearance of Shringara (love), Vira (heroism), Raudra (fury), etc. This 'Eka-Rasa-vada' (monistic theory of Rasa) is a hallmark of Bhavabhuti's philosophical outlook and deeply permeates his dramatic works, especially 'Uttararamacharita', which explores the profound and lingering sorrow of Rama after the abandonment of Sita.

This theory contrasts sharply with the traditional view that recognizes multiple independent Rasas, or the view that 'Shringara' is the 'Rasa-raja' (king of sentiments). Bhavabhuti's emphasis on Karuna reflects a worldview where empathy and the universal experience of suffering and resilience are paramount. He aims to evoke a profound emotional resonance in the audience, melting their hearts through a shared sense of compassion, which he sees as the ultimate aesthetic experience.

Let's consider why other options are incorrect:
1. Kalidasa: While a master of emotions, Kalidasa is primarily associated with 'Shringara' (Erotic/Love) Rasa, not 'Karuna' as the sole Rasa. His plays like 'Abhijnanashakuntalam' are rich in romantic sentiment.
2. Magha: The author of 'Shishupalavadha' is known for a blend of all poetic qualities (Upama, Arthagaurava, Padalalitya) and primarily for 'Vira' (Heroic) and 'Raudra' (Furious) Rasas.
3. Bharavi: The author of 'Kiratarjuniya' is noted for 'Arthagaurava' and primarily depicts 'Vira' Rasa.

Bhavabhuti's unique philosophical stance on Rasa solidifies his position as a distinct and profound voice in Sanskrit literature.

Step 4: Final Answer:
The statement "Eko rasah karuna eva" was famously made by Bhavabhuti. Therefore, Option (B) is the correct answer.