The eight rasas in bharata's nāṬyashāstra: a comprehensive study of sentiments in Indian theatre

This research paper delves into the concept of Rasa (sentiment) as outlined in Bharata Muni’s Nāṭyaśāstra, one of the oldest and most significant treatises on the performing arts. The Nāṭyaśāstra defines eight primary emotions or Rasas—each corresponding to a specific psychological state and its corresponding theatrical representation. These Rasas—śṛṅgāra (erotic), hāsya (comic), karuṇa (pathetic), raudra (furious), vīra (heroic), bhayānaka (terrible), bībhatsa (odious), and adbhuta (marvellous)—serve as the foundation for creating an emotionally engaging performance. This paper aims to explore the psychological underpinnings of each Rasa, their Determinants, Consequents, and Complementary Psychological States, and their dramatic representation on stage. By analyzing these emotions in the context of traditional Indian theatre, the paper emphasizes the integral role of Rasa in connecting the audience to the performance, making it an essential element of theatrical art. The research also explores the classification of these Rasas, their psychological and physical manifestations, and their implications for performers and audience alike.