Bharatamuni’s Natyashastra and the Concept of Social Emotion: A Critical Study
Piyush Dhumkekar
PhD Scholar
Amity University, Raipur (Chhattisgarh)
Mobile: 8447610220
Email: piyushdhumkekar@gmail.com
Keywords:
Bharatamuni, Natyashastra, Rasa Theory, Bhava, Social Emotion, Collective Emotional Experience, Indian Aesthetics, Performance Studies, Audience Psychology, Dramaturgy, Emotional Catharsis, Cultural Identity, Ethics in Drama, Social Harmony, Performing Arts Theory
Abstract
Bharatamuni’s Natyashastra is one of the most comprehensive treatises on dramaturgy, aesthetics, performance, and cultural psychology. Beyond its artistic contributions, the text serves as a major sociological document that reflects the values, emotions, and ethical principles of ancient Indian society. This research paper explores the concept of social emotion embedded in the Natyashastra, particularly through the lens of rasa, bhava, performance ethics, audience psychology, and social function. By examining these dimensions, the study highlights how the Natyashastra contributes to the understanding of collective emotional experience, social harmony, moral education, and cultural identity. The paper also discusses contemporary relevance, showing how the principles illuminated by Bharatamuni continue to influence modern theatre, cinema, communication studies, and social behaviour.
DOI link – https://doi.org/10.69758/GIMRJ/2511S01V13P018
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